Why are children different in their moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity levels? A multilevel analysis

Objective: Children's differences in moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity levels are not at random. This study investigates the relevance of individual‐ and school‐level characteristics in explaining these differences. Methods: In total, 307 children (154 girls) aged 5–10 years, from 19 Portuguese schools, were sampled. Height and weight were measured, and body mass index was calculated. Time spent in moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity was measured by accelerometry. Gross motor coordination was assessed with the KörperkoordinationsTest für Kinder battery and socio‐economic status was obtained via the school social support system. School characteristics were obtained with an objective school audit. A multilevel analysis was used as implemented in Stata 15. Results: Schools explained 18.2% of the total variance in moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity, with the remainder being ascribed to children's distinct characteristics. Boys were more active (β = 29.59 ± 11.52, p