Study launched in Kouvola and Mikkeli to track youth physical activity levels

Researchers are interested in how much and in what ways young people engage in physical activity. Last week, a study began in Kouvola and Mikkeli aimed at collecting data on the physical activity of youths in their daily lives. Students involved in the study received wrist monitors that measure their activity levels over eight days. The devices track when the students walk, run, cycle, or sit. This data can be utilized in urban planning to create solutions that support youth mobility in their communities.

Ninth graders from Myllykoski Unified School, including Niina Lagrén, Uma Lauren, and Maria Jokiranta, received their activity monitors on Friday. They reported that the devices do not hinder their daily lives and are fairly unobtrusive. “You quickly get used to it. You don’t really notice it anymore,” says Maria Jokiranta.

The students mentioned that casual activities like cycling to school and walking with friends are part of their daily routines. However, they are advised not to engage in unusual activity during the study period, as it might skew the results. Although they spend a significant amount of time sitting in class and studying at home, there is a shared desire to be more active. “I feel like I don’t move enough. It would be nice to be more active, but after school days, I feel too tired to do much,” shared Niina Lagrén.

Approximately 300 youths are participating in the study, with half receiving support to enhance their physical activity throughout the school year. The initiative includes education on the benefits of activity and personalized plans for increased movement. Researchers aim to measure whether support can effectively boost youth mobility, as the current societal trends indicate a worrying rise in inactivity. The data collected will provide insights into how daily life changes from elementary to middle school can influence physical activity levels.