<Notes>Physical Fitness of Thai Children and Their Environment

Abstract

Physique, physical functions and motor fitness abilities were measured at four elementary schools in two Thailand cities in 1980. Children from four schools in the two cities were sampled. Children of a model school (SC) in Bangkok were found to have larger physiques on the average than those of the other three; SS, MC and RC. Children of a public school (SS) are shorter and lighter than the others on the average. Children of the model MC and RC schools in Chiang Mai have better motor fitness on the average than those of the two schools in Bangkok. Bangkok is a big city, where such factors as heavy traffic, lack of playgrounds and the tropical climate, hamper vigorous activity. Families of SC school children are of higher socio-economic status in Bangkok. These environmental factors may play a part in the physical growth of children. The natural environment, abundant playgrounds and milder climate of Chiang Mai may be favourable for the development of motor fitness of children. Results of the study in Thailand have something in common with those in Japan. Differences in growth and development of children were found, and differences in some environmental factors are recognized between the two regions. Lastly, some differences of physique and physical fitness between Thai and Japanese children were noted.