Physical Activity Levels, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, and Physical Literacy in Children with a Chronic Medical Condition

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study investigated differences in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and other physical literacy domains between children with a chronic medical condition (CMC) who adhered to with the physical activity guideline and those who did not. METHOD: Forty children with a CMC (7-12 years) wore an accelerometer for 7 days to measure moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. CRF and muscle power were assessed with a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test, and motor performance was measured with an exercise course. Motivation, confidence, knowledge, and understanding were assessed with a questionnaire. RESULTS: Children who adhered to the PA guideline (n = 13) scored significantly higher for CRF, muscle power, motivation and confidence than children who did not adhere to the PA guideline (n = 27). No significant differences were found for motor performance, knowledge and understanding. CONCLUSION: Future research should investigate the effect of paying specific attention to motivation and confidence in children with a CMC to stimulate their adherence to the PA guideline.