MVPA and Weight Gain in Children
Author Information
Author(s): Fisher Abigail, Hill Claire, Webber Laura, Purslow Lisa, Wardle Jane
Primary Institution: Cancer Research UK Health Behaviour Research Centre, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
Hypothesis
Weight gain over one year in 8–10 year olds would be more strongly predicted by moderate and vigorous physical activity (MVPA) than total physical activity or sedentary behaviour.
Conclusion
The results of this study strongly support promotion of MVPA in children.
Supporting Evidence
- MVPA was significantly associated with follow-up BMI after adjusting for baseline factors.
- Children in the highest tertile for MVPA had a significantly lower increase in BMI and WC than those in the lowest tertile.
- Only 1% of children met the minimum guidelines of at least 60 minutes of MVPA.
Takeaway
Kids who move around a lot in a fun way are less likely to gain weight. So, it's important for them to play and be active!
Methodology
Participants were 280 children, and their physical activity was measured using accelerometers while their weight status was assessed using BMI, FMI, and waist circumference at baseline and follow-up.
Limitations
Fat mass index was measured with bioelectrical impedance which has relatively poor accuracy, and physical activity was only measured at baseline.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 8–10 year old children from diverse ethnic backgrounds in London, UK.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.002 for BMI, p=0.001 for FMI, p=0.06 for WC
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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