Self-perception and dissatisfaction with weight does not depend on the frequency of physical activity.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the level of satisfaction with body weight and the self-perception of the weight/height ratio and to verify the influence of the frequency of present and past physical activity on these variables.


METHODS
Using questionnaires or interviews, we obtained height data, reported and desired weight, self-perception of the weight/height ratio, and the frequency of current physical activity in 844 adults (489 women). Of these, evaluated the frequency of physical activity during high school of 193 individuals, and we measured their height and weight.


RESULTS
Less than 2/3 of the individuals had body mass index between 20 and 24.9 kg/m2. A tendency existed to overestimate height by less than 1 cm and to underestimate weight by less than 1 kg. Desired weight was less than that reported (p < 0.001), and only 20% were satisfied with their current weight. Only 42% of men and 25% of women exercised regularly. No association was found between the frequency of physical activity and the variables height, weight, and body mass index, and the level of satisfaction with current weight.


CONCLUSIONS
Height and weight reported seem to be valid for epidemological studies, and great dissatisfaction with body weight and a distorted self-perception of height/weight ratio exists, especially in women, regardless of the frequency of physical activity.
de Araújo
Denise Sardinha Mendes Soares
DS
Universidade Gama Filho, Escola de Educação da Universidade do Rio de Janeiro.
de Araújo
Claudio Gil Soares
CG
D000328:Adult; D001827:Body Height; D001828:Body Image; D015992:Body Mass Index; D001835:Body Weight; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D012737:Sex Factors