Effects of physical activity on self-concept and self-efficacy in preadolescents

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of regular physical exercise on self-concept and self-efficacy in a group of preadolescents. The participants of this study were 63 children from the city of Malaga (Spain), aged 10 to 12 years (M = 10.54, SD =.56). A quasi-experimental design was used, including a control group and an experimental group. To assess self-concept, the Autoconcepto Forma 5 Questionnaire (AF5) was used and to analyze the self-efficacy the Self-Efficacy Scale for Children (EAN) was used. In addition, as control measures, physical fitness, studying and sleeping hours were assessed. The results indicated significant effects of regular physical activity on physical self-concept and academic self-concept. Also, evidence of significant effects was obtained in academic self-efficacy and social self-efficacy. This data suggests that practicing physical activity in preadolescence may improve development processes, having an effect on children in the variables investigated.