Lower Musculoskeletal Fitness Among Children With Disabilities, Ages 6 To 15 Years: 2012 NYFS

Abstract

Children with disabilities (CWD) are at increased risk for obesity, due in part to low rates of physical activity and poor physical fitness. CWD often exhibit deficits in musculoskeletal fitness, which may affect the ability to perform activities of daily living. However, much of the literature on fitness in CWD is limited by small, non-representative samples. PURPOSE: To examine differences in musculoskeletal fitness between children with and without disabilities from the 2012 National Youth Fitness Survey (NYFS). A secondary aim of the study was to examine factors related to poor musculoskeletal fitness. METHODS: A secondary analysis of cross-sectional data from the 2012 NYFS of children, 6 to 15 years of age. Fitness measures included plank (s), modified pull-ups (#), and grip strength (kg). Grip strength was standardized relative to body weight (kg/kg). Low fitness performance was defined as ≤20th percentile of age/sex specific reference curves (Laurson et al., 2016). Disability was identified by parent report of movement limitation, long-term impairment, use of specialized equipment, or special education services. Logistic regression with sampling weights was employed to examine group differences and associated factors. RESULTS: A total of 1,177 children (49% female, Mage = 10.5 ± 0.07) were analyzed, including 173 CWD (15%). A significantly greater proportion of CWD demonstrated low musculoskeletal fitness compared to children without disabilities (Table 1). Factors associated with low fitness included sex, engagement in physical activity, and body mass index category (p < .05). Age was not a significant factor for any fitness measure (p > .10). CONCLUSION: This secondary analysis provides additional evidence for lower musculoskeletal fitness among CWD, in particular for females and children with obesity. Physical fitness continues to be an area in need of intervention to improve overall health among CWD.a Proportion (95% CI) at ≤20th percentile.* p < .05