Patterns of physical activity among 3rd - 5th graders in a low-income urban community

BACKGROUND: Physical activity (PA) is essential for good health and proper growth and development among children and youth. PURPOSE: We examined self-reported PA among 3rd through 5th graders in a low-income urban community prior to implementing an intervention. SIGNIFICANCE: PA is one of the 10 Leading Health Indicators in Healthy People 2010 yet youth PA levels fall below Healthy People 2010 objectives. Research documents that significant PA declines occur between grades 1-3 and 4-6, increasing children's future health risk. METHODS: We administered a standardized PA-themed survey at four elementary schools in urban neighborhoods with large proportions of people of color (~70% African American). The survey consisted of the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C), a modified Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES), PA content from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, and demographics. Researchers read the survey aloud to groups of 6-8 youth at a time to account for variations in reading ability. RESULTS: Among 1042 youth, 34% were active ≤2 times in the past week and 33% ≥7 times. PAQ-C scores indicated only a moderate level of PA. There was a high frequency of sedentary behavior including screen time (television, computer, and video games) that averaged 4 hours/day. PACES and PAQ-C scores had significant positive correlations. CONCLUSIONS: A significant proportion of these youth reported sub-optimal PA and relatively high screen time. Intervention can capitalize on PA enjoyment and maintain a focus on fun. School-community partnerships accounting for neighborhood characteristics may improve current activity levels and help to sustain them.