Gender Differences in Obesity, Postural Status, Body and Foot Deformities, and Leisure Activities Among Primary School Students

Background: Correct body posture should be at the very top, because it is an essential prerequisite for good health, normal growth and development, and good looks of every student. Inadequate spending of free time leads to the appearance of obesity, improper posture, and the appearance of physical deformities. Aims: This research aims to determine the prevalence of obesity, improper body posture, body deformities, and the way of spending free time among primary school students according to gender. Methods: The research was carried out on a sample of a total of N=1,850 primary school students, of which there were N=989 (53%) male respondents and N=861 (47%) female respondents. Analyzing the results of morphological characteristics, it was determined that boys have a higher body mass index (BMI) than girls. Result: The obtained results are statistically significant at the level of less than 1% (p<0.01), and the results were in favor of girls. Obesity and excessive nutrition are more prevalent in boys than in girls. By measuring the lateral curve of the spinal column, the following results were obtained: 67.24% of boys have improper posture, and 37.52% of girls. Conclusion: Classroom data show children spend substantial free time on electronic devices, especially boys gaming on computers and tablets. Girls more often engage in sports, television viewing, reading, and mobile communication. Preventive action is needed through regular student monitoring, testing, and measurement to track developmental changes and promote healthier lifestyle patterns in school contexts.