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Tracking of physical activity in young children
R R Pate1, T Baranowski, M Dowda
1Department of Exercise Science, University of South Carolina, Columbia 29208, USA.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Physical activity behavior shows tracking in early childhood. This study found consistent physical activity levels in children aged 3-4 years over a three-year period, indicating predictable patterns.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Child Development
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Understanding physical activity patterns in early childhood is crucial for long-term health.
- Early childhood is a critical period for establishing lifelong habits.
- Limited research exists on the tracking of physical activity behavior during these formative years.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if physical activity behavior is consistent (tracks) during early childhood.
- To analyze the stability of physical activity levels in young children over time.
Main Methods:
- Followed 47 children (aged 3-4 years) for 3 years.
- Measured physical activity using the PAHR-50 Index, based on heart rate monitoring.
- Analyzed tracking using correlations, percent agreement, Cohen's kappa, and intraclass correlation coefficient.
Main Results:
- Spearman correlations for physical activity tracking ranged from 0.57 to 0.66 (P < 0.0001).
- Intraclass correlation coefficient (R) across 3 years was 0.81.
- Percent agreement in physical activity tertiles ranged from 49% to 62%.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity behavior demonstrates a tendency to track during early childhood.
- Findings suggest that children's physical activity levels are relatively stable during this developmental stage.
- This tracking implies potential for early intervention to promote sustained physical activity.