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Motor fitness and preschooler children obesity status
Sandra Silva-Santos1, Amanda Santos1, Susana Vale1
1a Research Centre in Physical Activity, Health and Leisure, Faculty of Sport , University of Porto , Porto , Portugal.
Insights
Obese preschoolers are six times more likely to have low motor fitness (MF). This study highlights the significant link between childhood obesity and reduced physical capabilities, emphasizing the need for early intervention.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Exercise Science
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern.
- Motor fitness (MF) is crucial for overall child development.
- Understanding the link between obesity and MF in preschoolers is vital.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between motor fitness and obesity status in preschool children.
- To determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity in the study sample.
- To identify if obese preschoolers exhibit lower motor fitness levels.
Main Methods:
- Assessed 467 children aged 3-6 years.
- Classified body mass index (BMI) using International Obesity Task Force criteria.
- Measured motor fitness via shuttle run test (SRT) and 7m jumping test (J2F).
- Utilized accelerometers for physical activity assessment.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of normal weight, overweight, and obesity was 67.6%, 22.7%, and 9.7%, respectively.
- 19.2% of preschoolers exhibited low motor fitness.
- Obese preschoolers were six times more likely to have low motor fitness compared to non-overweight peers (OR: 6.4).
Conclusions:
- A significant association exists between obesity and lower motor fitness in preschoolers.
- The study indicates a considerable prevalence of overweight and obesity in this age group.
- Further longitudinal research is recommended to confirm these findings and explore causal relationships.
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to examine the association between motor fitness (MF) and obesity status in preschool children. The sample comprised 467 children aged 3-6 years. Preschool children body mass index was classified according to International Obesity Task Force and categorised into three levels, normal, overweight and obesity. Total physical activity was assessed by accelerometer and MF test was assessed through two MF tests 10 × 5m shuttle run test (SRT) and a 7 m jumping distance on 2 feet test (J2F). Low MF was considered for MF if SD above 1. A single variable with three categories was created: low MF medium MF and high MF. The prevalence of normal weight, overweight and obesity was 67.6%, 22.7% and 9.7%, respectively. The prevalence of SD > 1 for SRT was 13.7% and 14.4% for J2F, for single variable was 19.2%. Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that obese preschoolers were more likely six times classified as having low MF level than their non-overweight counterparts (OR: 6.4; IC: 1.3-36.6). This study showed a considerable prevalence of overweight and obesity among preschoolers. Obesity has already been associated with lower MF. Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm this data.
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