Demographic, Physiologic, and Psychosocial Correlates of Physical Activity in Structured Exercise and Sports Among Low-Income, Overweight Children

Abstract Objective To describe correlates of physical activity (PA) in structured exercise and structured sports sessions among low-income, overweight children participating in a community-based PA program. Methods A total of 93 children (55% male; 91% Hispanic) aged 8–14 years were included. Participants wore pedometers in a sample of 10 of 59 total sessions offered; mean steps per minute were calculated for structured exercise and sports sessions. Separate multivariable regression models tested associations between steps per minute in exercise and sports sessions and 5 potential correlates: baseline body mass index z -score, aerobic fitness (Progressive Aerobic Cardiorespiratory Endurance Run laps), perceived athletic competence (Harter self-perception profile), sex, and age. Results Only age (ß = –2.9; P = .02) significantly predicted steps per minute in exercise sessions. Age (ß = –4.3; P = .007), fitness (ß = 0.45; P = .03), and male sex (ß = 8.7; P = .02) significantly predicted steps per minute in sports. Conclusion and Implications In structured exercise and sports, perceived competence may not influence overweight and obese children’s PA. However, girls and older or less fit children may engage less actively, especially in sports.