Exploring The Role of Physical Literacy in Preventing Lifestyle-Related Disorders: A Comparative Study of Rural and Urban School Populations in Punjab and Haryana

Introduction: the alarming surge in lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes amongst children and adolescents in metropolitan cities is correlated with the lack of physical activity. Hence, the aim of this research is to investigate the impact of physical literacy. Moreover, the study was also aimed to explore differences regarding level of physical activity, physical literacy, and health outcomes among school children in Punjab and Haryana from rural and urban backgrounds. Methodology: A comprehensive approach was applied. An integration of qualitative and quantitative methods was used to collect data. The sample included 200 school children, 100 from rural and another 100 from urban (through a survey). Physical activity, physical literacy as well as lifestyle-related disorders were gauged through a structured survey questionnaire. In addition, students' height, weight, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels were measured. Alongside the anthropometric assessment, semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were conducted including teachers and parents from participating schools to further explore their perceptions on physical activity. Results: Unstructured forms of physical activity such as walking and farming was prominent in rural children contrasted with their urban counterparts who had better access to structured Physical Education (PE) programs. Urban children, however, overall had lower activity levels than rural children. Rural children excelled in physical competence, whereas urban children were more self-confident in sports. Urban children had a greater burden of lifestyle diseases, with 18% of them being classified as overweight or obese compared to 10% for rural children. Hypertension and early diabetes were also more common among urban children. Discussion: The results indicate that rural children, while more active, were less formally educated in physical literacy which explains the lower scores on motivation and confidence. On the other hand, the structured physical education available to urban children did little to mitigate the effects of a sedentary lifestyle caused by increased screen time, poor diet, and other factors. These findings call for targeted approaches to encourage both unstructured and structured physical activities in children, considering the distinct rural versus urban dynamics. Conclusion: The current analysis highlights the role of physical literacy in averting lifestyle-related health problems among school-aged children. It also indicates that rural children need less restricted and more unstructured physical activities, while urban children require more unrestricted physical activities and diminished sedentary time. Specific action plans for children’s health in rural and urban areas are greatly needed with direct engagement from teachers, parents, and government officials.