Methods: Perceptions of the availability and use of environmental resources, vigorous physical activity (VIG), daily energy expenditure (KCAL), lifestyle activities (LA), and cardiovascular fitness (VO2 peak) were assessed cross-sectionally among 87 minimally active adolescent girls (ages 14–17). To validate adolescent reports, the perceived availability of environmental resources was also assessed from 47 parents.

 

Results: Adolescent-parent agreement over the availability of resources was modest for the home domain (r=5.62, p< .001) and weak for the community domain (r= 5.14, p< .05). Adolescents’ perceptions of resource availability in both the home and community domains were positively associated with VO2 peak (p<.05) but unrelated to VIG, KCAL, and LA. Adolescents’ use of home resources was positively correlated with both VIG and LA (p <.05).

 

Conclusion: Minimally active adolescent girls were more attuned to and likely to use the resources for physical activity located in their home environment as opposed to the community environment.