Associations between physical activity and physical fitness in American children

Although regular physical activity is known to have significant health benefits for adults, few studies have fully explored this issue in children. Previous studies have found that over 20 percent of children in this country do not meet the recommended fitness standards. Other national studies that have been conducted have examined only the physical fitness of children, without taking into account their level of physical activity. To ascertain the relationship between levels of physical activity and physical fitness, a large national sampling of boys and girls aged eight to nine years old was studied. Two fitness tests, the 1.6-km run/walk and the sum of three skinfold measurements (which measure body fat), were used. Parent and teacher questionnaires were also utilized to assess 20 physical activity variables such as extent of participation in physical education classes and community activities such as Cub Scouts and sports leagues. Two multiple regression analyses were used on data from 1,150 boys and 1,202 girls who were a part of the National Children and Youth Fitness Study II. The results indicate a moderate, but significant, correlation between levels of physical activity and physical fitness in the children. These findings have important implications for public health specialists and teachers. Introduction of physical activity intervention programs may enhance the physical fitness of children, and such programs should be examined further. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)