Description and Comparison of Health Behaviors to Fitness Measures Among Boy Scouts

The purpose of this study is to describe, compare, and correlate self-reported health behaviors (HB) to fitness test (FT) measures among boy scouts initiating the Personal Fitness Merit Badge (PFMB) requirements. A descriptive study recruited scouts ages 11-17 years using a sample of convenience. A survey of self-reported responses to physical activity, weight and nutrition, and PFMB required FTs were assessed. Descriptive statistics reported age and survey responses. A pairwise comparison examined the differences in negative and positive survey responses to FT measures; whereas the Spearman Rank correlation analyzed physical education (PE) classes and sports team participation with FT performance. Ninety-nine scouts, age 12.6 (SD 1.4) years, met inclusion criteria. Positive responses to being at a recommended weight and engaging in less screen time demonstrated significantly better performance on pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups, and one mile run (1MR) tests; whereas scouts reporting to have been physically active at least five times in the past week performed better on the push-ups, sit-ups, and 1MR tests. Improved sit and reach flexibility and sit-up tests were correlated to more days in PE; whereas team sport participation correlated to better 1MR and sit-up test performance. Nutritional practices and reduced screen time demonstrated favorable trends among scouts compared to all-male adolescence nationally; however, weight and physical activity behaviors suggest targeted interventions are warranted. Scouts initiating the requirements of the PFMB may be well-positioned to embark on targeted health behavior changes aimed at achieving long-term healthful lifestyles.