Physical Activity Questionnaire For Children Research Articles

Physical activity levels and sleep disturbances in Indonesian primary school students during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background During the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Indonesian government implemented a large-scale, social restriction policy, including the closure of schools and recreational facilities, which potentially altered children’s physical activity and sleep patterns. Objective To analyze for a possible association between physical activity levels and sleep disturbances in Indonesian primary school students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on 437 children aged 7-13 years using data collected online in April-August 2020, including children’s sociodemographic characteristics, physical activity levels, and sleep patterns. The translated Indonesian version of Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) and the Children Sleep Habits Questionnaire-Abbreviated (CSHQ-A) were used to collect data. The data analyzed consisted of sociodemographic factors and physical activity levels, sociodemographic factors and sleep disturbances, and physical activity levels and sleep disturbances. Results Most children were physically inactive (60.87%) and experienced sleep disturbances (73.23%) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Female sex and physical inactivity were significantly associated. Male sex and sleep disturbances were significantly associated. Age 7 as the lowest age group was significantly associated with sleep disturbances. There was no significant association (P=0.248) between physical activity levels and sleep disturbances. Conclusion Most Indonesian primary school students were physically inactive and had sleep disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Female sex and physical inactivity were significantly associated, while male sex and sleep disturbances were significantly associated, age 7 (lower age group) and sleep disturbances were significantly associated. There was no significant association between physical activity levels and sleep disturbances in Indonesian primary school students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Association Between Physical Fitness, Body Fat, BMI, and Physical Activity Level with Learning Outcomes in Elementary School Students

The main problem in achieving learning outcomes in physical subjects at the primary school level is very complex. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between physical fitness, body fat, BMI, and physical activity levels with physical education learning outcome in elementary school students. A cross-sectional study was conducted to answer the research questions. This study involved 27 students (Aged 10.820.79) from elementary schools in Malang City, Indonesia. Instruments to determine physical fitness include endurance (PACER Test), flexibility (V sit and reach), and strength (sit-ups and squat thrust), the Indonesian Physical Fitness Test was used to determine body fat and Body Mass Index (BMI), and Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) was used to determine physical activity levels. The research result showed that physical fitness, body fat, BMI, and physical activity level were closely related to learning outcomes (R of 0.821), but only physical fitness influences physical fitness (Sig. < 0.05), while body fat, BMI, and physical activity level had no effect. In conclusion, students with good physical fitness tend to get good learning outcomes, so the physical education curriculum must accommodate physical activities that can increase the physical fitness level of students. Future research on academic success factors needs to be investigated, especially schools need to promote movement-based activities to support academic success.

Decreasing sedentary time during lessons reduces obesity in primary school children: the Active Movement study.

School-based exercise interventions targeted at reducing obesity are often successful in the short term, but they are resource-heavy and don't always lead to long-lasting behaviour changes. This study investigated the effect of reducing sedentary time, rather than increasing exercise, on physical activity (PA) behaviours and obesity in primary school children. 30 UK state primary schools participated in this cluster-controlled intervention study (IDACI score = .15 ± .07, Free school meals = 26 ± 9 %). Twenty-six intervention and 4 control schools (intervention = 3529, control = 308 children) completed the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) in terms 1 and 3. Three intervention and 3 control schools (intervention = 219, control = 152 children) also measured waist-to-height ratio (WTHR). The Active Movement intervention is a school-based programme which integrates non-sedentary behaviours such as standing and walking in the classroom. Data was analysed via ANCOVAs and multiple linear regressions. WTHR was reduced by 8% in the intervention group only (F(2,285) = 11.387 p < .001), and sport participation increased by 10% in the intervention group only (F(1,232) = 6.982, p = .008). Other PAQ-C measures increased significantly in the intervention group, but there was no group*time interaction. Changes in PAQ-C did not predict reductions in WTHR. Instead, the amount of change in WTHR was predicted by intervention group and by baseline WTHR of the pupil, where children with higher baseline WTHR showed greater reductions (F(2, 365) = 77.21, p < .001, R2 = .30). Socio-economic status (SES), age or gender did not mediate any of the changes in the PAQ-C nor WTHR. Reducing sedentary behaviours during school time can be an effective obesity reduction strategy for primary school children who are overweight. The lack of demographic effects suggests that this method can be effective regardless of the school's SES, pupil age or gender.

Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children: Validity and Cut-Points to Identify Sufficient Levels of Moderate- to Vigorous-Intensity Physical Activity Among Children and Adolescents Diagnosed With HIV.

To investigate the validity of the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C) to assess the moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) level of children and adolescents diagnosed with HIV and propose cut-points, with accelerometer measures as the reference method. Children and adolescents, aged 8-14years (mean age = 12.21y, SD = 2.09), diagnosed with HIV by vertical transmission, participated in the study. MVPA was investigated through the PAQ-C and triaxial accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X+). Receiver operating characteristic curve and sensitivity and specificity values were used to identify a cut-point for PAQ-C to distinguish participants meeting MVPA guidelines. Fifty-six children and adolescents participated in the study. Among those, 16 met MVPA guidelines. The PAQ-C score was significantly related to accelerometry-derived MVPA (ρ = .506, P < .001). The PAQ-C score cut-point of 2.151 (sensitivity = 0.625, specificity = 0.875) was able to discriminate between those who met MVPA guidelines and those that did not (area under the curve = 0.751, 95% confidence interval, 0.616-0.886). The PAQ-C was useful to investigate MVPA among children and adolescents diagnosed with HIV and to identify those who meet MVPA guidelines.

Assessment of quality of life and physical activity in patients with oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis in remission.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate physical activity (PA) and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children with oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in remission in comparison with healthy peers and to determine the disease-related factors affecting PA levels. This study was conducted with 50 oligoarticular JIA patients in remission and 50 healthy peers between 9 and 14years. Demographic and clinical characteristics, laboratory parameters, and treatments were noted from electronic medical records. HRQOL was assessed with the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). PA was evaluated with the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C). Oligoarticular JIA patients had significantly lower self-reported median PedsQL scores in the domains of school functioning and social functioning compared to the control group (67.5 (10) vs. 75 (25), p = 0.001 and 70 (15) vs. 85 (26.3), p < 0.001, respectively). The median PAQ-C score was 2.6 (1.1) in patients with JIA and 3 (0.9) in their healthy peers (p = 0.02). The PAQ-C score was 2.8 (1.2) in patients < 8years at the disease onset and 2.3 (1) in those aged ≥ 8years (p = 0.022). There was no significant difference in the number of affected joints, type of affected joint, MTX and biologic agent treatment, and remission with or without drugs with the total score of the PedsQL and PAQ-C. All PedsQL domains were positively correlated with the PAQ-C. Conclusion: Oligoarticular JIA patients demonstrated lower PA and HRQOL scores compared to healthy controls despite favorable disease control. What is Known: • Oligoarticular JIA has fewer functional limitations and disabilities compared to other JIA subtypes. • As JIA can affect all aspects of a child's life, there is a need to improve the quality of life related to the disease. What is New: • It should be considered that patients with oligoarticular JIA may show lower PA and HRQOL scores compared to healthy controls despite favorable disease control. • Since there may be a relationship between PA and HRQOL, factors that may affect PA should be investigated to provide a holistic approach to JIA treatment.

Impact of socioeconomic level on the physical condition of schools: A motor gap

The objective of this study was to analyse the physical condition of students in the third cycle of Primary Education from various educational centres in the Province of Alicante, in relation to their socioeconomic level. The study sample was made up of a total of 240 students from the third cycle of Primary Education, specifically 136 boys and 104 girls, from various schools located in three different geographical environments in the province of Alicante (urban, rural, coastal). A correlational and descriptive study was carried out. To measure the socioeconomic level of the students, families completed the Social Class Questionnaire; Regarding the anthropometric and motor condition of the students, body composition, musculoskeletal capacity, aerobic capacity and motor capacity were evaluated, for which the ALPHA-Fitness battery was used. In addition, to measure the students' adherence to the Mediterranean diet and extracurricular sports activity, the students filled out the KIDMED and PAQ-C questionnaires (Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children) respectively. The results showed that the students in the study with a higher socioeconomic level have a better physical condition in terms of body composition, musculoskeletal capacity, aerobic capacity and motor capacity. Therefore, it is necessary to implement programs and activities that encourage the practice of physical activity and the acquisition of healthy habits, especially in the most disadvantaged areas.

Examination of Physical Activity Patterns of Children, Reliability and Structural Validity Testing of the Hungarian Version of the PAQ-C Questionnaire.

Several studies report on the importance of physical activity (PA) in childhood, which influences attitudes towards health in adulthood. For monitoring PA, trustworthy measurement tools are needed. The study aimed to adapt the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) to the Hungarian language and assess its validity, reliability, and factor structure. A total of 620 children (the average age was 10.62 (SD 2.36)) participated in the cross-sectional study. To assess physical activity, the PAQ-C questionnaire was used. The collected data were analysed using IBM SPSS version 28.0 and IBM SPSS AMOS 29.0 software. The internal consistency was acceptable (alpha = 0.729) and the test-retest reliability showed acceptable agreement (ICC = 0.772). The confirmatory factor favoured a one-factor structure of the questionnaire. The average PAQ-C score for girls was 2.87 (SD 1.07), and for boys it was 3.00 (SD 1.05), which showed a significant difference (p = 0.005). Based on our findings, our study tested the validity and reliability of the one-factor PAQ-C questionnaire, a valid and reliable measurement tool to test the physical activity patterns of primary school children in a Hungarian sample. Further research is needed to develop physical activity monitoring of Hungarian children.

Risk assessment of low cognitive performance among fishermen's children in Malaysia

ObjectivesLow cognitive performance is a major concern among fishermen's children in Malaysia. Thus, this study was aimed at assessing dietary intake, nutritional status, physical activity, and socio-economic status, and their associations with cognitive performance among fishermen's children in Terengganu, Malaysia. We also investigated the risk associated with low cognitive performance. MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 94 children 7–11 years of age in Terengganu. Dietary adequacy was assessed with two 24-h dietary recall surveys. Anthropometric measurements were assessed by calculation of the body mass index (BMI)-for-age Z-score and height-for-age Z-score. In addition, median urinary iodine tests were conducted to determine iodine concentrations. Physical activity was measured with the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C). Raven's coloured progressive matrices were used to determine cognitive performance. Binominal logistic regressions were performed on factors associated with cognitive performance, to identify the risk factors with the strongest association with cognitive performance. ResultsThe children of fishermen had adequate intake of all necessary nutrients except for fat, dietary fibre, thiamine, folate, vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, zinc, and potassium. Most of the children had normal BMI-for-age [median = −0.86 (2.11)] and height-for-age (mean = −1.01 ± 1.03). However, more than half had iodine deficiency [median = 83.9 (102)]. In addition, 16% had low physical activity levels, and their cognitive performance was classified with a low average score [median = 80.0 (21.0)]. The mother's education level (p = 0.037), children's BMI-for-age (p = 0.012), protein (p = 0.020), and niacin (p = 0.032), exhibited significant relationships with cognitive performance (p < 0.05). Of these variables, BMI-for-age (OR = 0.290, p = 0.036) and fourth quartile protein intake (≥52.69 g) (OR = 7.565, p = 0.015) were significant risk factors for low cognitive performance among fishermen's children in Terengganu. ConclusionA balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are crucial for children's cognitive development. Thus, interventions emphasising the promotion of healthy lifestyles, particularly focusing on BMI-for-age and protein intake, are advised.

Cut-point values for classifying active children and validity and reliability of physical activity questionnaire for children in Morocco.

The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) is widely used to assess physical activity in populations; however, there is a lack of information about the psychometric properties (validity and reliability) and about the PAQ-C score meaning in populations from low-middle income countries. The aim of this study is to evaluate the reliability and validity of PAQ-C and to determine the cut-point values of PAQ-C using accelerometry as a reference in a group of Moroccan children. In a sample of 171 children and adolescents aged 8 to 14 years, physical activity was assessed with the GT3X + accelerometer and the PAQ-C. PAQ-C was administered for a second time (retest) after 1week for a subsample (n = 73). Reliability was analyzed by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The PAQ-C was compared against count per minute CPM and moderate to vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) obtained by accelerometry. Receiver operating curve analyses were performed to assess the performance of PAQ-C in identifying MVPA as measured by accelerometry (reference method). Test-retest reliability was poor with an ICC = (0.48 [0.27; 0.63] for the whole sample, while for the ≥11 year group, the intra-class correlation coefficient was moderate (0.71 [0.42; 0.86]. PAQ-C scores were significantly related to accelerometry-derived metrics of physical activity, CPM (R = 0.29, P < 0.001) and MVPA (R = 0.26, P < 0.001). For the age group ≥11 years, the associations between PAQ-C Scores and CPM and MVPA were stronger, respectively, R = 0.37 (P <0.001), R =0.38 (P < 0.0001). We identified that a PAQ-C Score cut-point of 2.33 (95%CI [0.43-0.68]) discriminated adequately between those who met physical activity guidelines and those that did not in the overall sample. The PAQ-C is valid and useful to assess population level physical activity in those ≥11 years in Morocco and so might be helpful in population surveillance of physical activity in Moroccan adolescents.

Quality of life and physical activity level among children with Perthes disease

Background: Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD) is a juvenile osteonecrosis of the femoral head, leading to hip pain, limping, and restricted range of motion in affected children. Physical activity restrictions are commonly advised to prevent femoral head deformity, but their impact on the quality of life in children with LCPD is not fully understood. Methods: The case-control design was used to assess the physical activity levels and quality of life of 20 children with LCPD, comparing them to a control group of typically developing children via online questionnaires. The period of recruitment starts from July 2023 to November 2023. The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) and the KIDSCREEN-10 questionnaire were used to collect data. Results: Children with LCPD demonstrated significantly lower physical activity levels at school and during weekends at home compared to the control group. They also reported lower quality of life scores, with specific questionnaire items indicating reduced feelings of fitness, energy, and the ability to have fun with friends. Chronic pain, emotional impact, and physical activity restrictions were identified as contributing factors. Conclusion: A holistic approach is needed to address the challenges faced by children with LCPD, encompassing effective pain management, identifying safe physical activities, and integrating psychological support into their care. This study highlights the importance of understanding the multifaceted impact of LCPD on affected children, emphasizing the need for further research and intervention to enhance their well-being

Parent and child perceptions of physical activity with type 1 diabetes

IntroductionType 1 diabetes (T1D) is a lifelong illness that affects over 2500 children in Ireland. Management involves complex daily regimens including frequent blood glucose monitoring, pharmacotherapy, dietary management, and physical...

Correlates of Physical Activity among Preadolescent Filipinos

A resounding call for more contemporary research on the correlates of physical activity in low and middle-income countries has been documented over the years. It was, therefore, the aim of this study to examine the correlates of physical activity in terms of endurance, body mass index, and motivation. Study participants involved 257 students, specifically male (n=137) and female (n=120), ranging from 9 to 11 years old preadolescent Filipinos. The physical activity levels were determined by the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C), while the cardiorespiratory endurance was assessed by a 3-minute step test. A body mass index (BMI) was calculated and classified using the World Health Organization criteria. Both Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ) and the PAQ-C were used to measure motivation in physical activities. An interview was also conducted for data triangulation. This research yielded the following results: First, endurance (x1) had no direct positive effect on physical activity (y) (β=-.069). Second, BMI (x2) had no direct positive effect on Physical activity (y) (β=.023). Third, motivation (x3) had a direct positive effect on physical activity (y) (β=.237). Next, endurance (x1) had no direct positive effect on motivation (x3) (β=-.116). Subsequently, BMI (x2) had a direct negative effect on motivation (x3) (β =-.301). Finally, endurance (x1) had a direct positive effect on BMI (x2) (β =.515). Endurance-BMI was considered the most remarkable relationship, garnering the highest standard estimate score of .515. The results also showed that BMI (x1) positively affected endurance (x2). It suggests that higher levels of working heart rate are associated with higher BMI scores of overweight and obese Filipino preadolescents. They had a lower endurance level due to excess body weight.

Vext - A Virtual Exercise Training Program For Pediatric Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: A Feasibility Study.

Pediatric solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients report lower strength and physical activity levels than their healthy peers. Virtual exercise programs may reduce barriers to exercise and allow for additional access to specialized care. PURPOSE: To determine the feasibility of an 8-week virtual exercise program (VEXT) in pediatric solid organ transplant recipients. METHODS: A strength-based program was designed by a clinical exercise physiologist (AD). A treadmill exercise stress test was completed prior to starting the program. Self-report surveys were used to assess quality of life (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, PedsQL), fatigue (Pediatric Quality of Life Multidimensional Fatigue Scale, PedsQL-Fatigue), and physical activity (Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children and Adolescents, PAQ-C/A) prior to and after completion of the program. The strength sub-test of the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT-2) was administered virtually. Classes were conducted via Zoom (Zoom Video Communications Inc, San Jose, CA), 3 times per week for 30 minutes. Weekly engagement with the study team was provided by a web-based text messaging platform (WelTel Inc., Vancouver, BC). Medians (inter-quartile range, IQR) are reported. RESULTS: Baseline findings are reported for 12 participants (4 liver, 5 kidney, 3 heart SOT recipients; 58% females). The median age was 12 (11-14) years. PedsQL score was [69.57 (55.98-79.89); Normal: 85.66 ± 11.99]. PedsQL-Fatigue score was [66.67 (45.84-76.89); Normal: 82.19 ± 12.27]. PAQ-C/A score was [Females: 1.72 (1.27-2.11); Normal: 2.70 ± 0.63, Males: 2.87 (2.60-2.87); Normal: 3.01 ± 0.72]. The median strength subtest Z-score was -1.00 (-1.35 to -0.60). Exercise times for 10 of the participants who followed the BCCH protocol was 7.04 minutes [(5.68 - 8.86); Controls: 15.25 (13.82 - 16.75)]. The remaining 2 participants followed a modified protocol due to physical limitations. CONCLUSIONS: At baseline, pediatric SOT recipients report a lower quality of life, higher fatigue, and lower physical activity levels than healthy children. Eleven of twelve participants have a low strength score. A virtual exercise program may help to increase strength, increase physical activity levels and, in turn, may improve quality of life in these children.

Quality of life measures and physical activity in childhood systemic lupus erythematosus.

Childhood systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) is a life-long disease with significant morbidity and mortality, and with associated significant impact on health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Previous literature supports that physical activity has positive impact on HRQOL in patients with chronic diseases, including cSLE. We sought to describe the physical activity of our patients with cSLE and determine the relationship between physical activity, SLE activity, treatment modalities and HRQOL in cSLE. Children ≤18 years of age with cSLE and their parents were enrolled and completed corresponding child and parent Simple Measure of Impact of Lupus Erythematosus in Youngsters© reports (cSMILEY© and pSMILEY©, respectively), and the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) or Adolescents (PAQ-A). Through retrospective chart review, we assessed the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) using the SLEDAI-2K assessment tool. Descriptive statistics as well as Pearson's correlation coefficients were performed with the data obtained. Forty-four children and their parents were enrolled; clinical data, SMILEY© and PAQ-C or PAQ-A scores of cSLE subjects were evaluated. The most frequently reported physical activity modality was walking (61.3%), with mean frequency of 3.7 ± 1.8 days a week, and a median of 3.5 days a week. Although there was no correlation noted between treatment modalities and PAQ-C/PAQ-A, there was weak correlation between SLEDAI and PAQ-C/PAQ-A (Pearson correlation= 0.2, ρ = 0.1, p = 0.9, n = 44). There was a weak correlation between SMILEY total score and PAQ [cSMILEY© and PAQ-C/PAQ-A combined cohorts (Pearson correlation = 0.2, ρ = 0.3, p = 0.07, n = 44), and modest correlation between pSMILEY© scores and PAQ-C/PAQ-A combined cohorts (Pearson correlation = 0.3, ρ = 0.3, p = 0.05, n = 44)]. Our study emphasizes the need for larger samples to understand the prognostic value of activity levels and the extent to which increasing physical activity might be linked to improvements in HRQOL in this vulnerable population.

Association of Ultra Processed Food Consumption and Body Mass Index for Age among Elementary Students in Surabaya

Background: Childhood obesity became a major nutritional problem in the last decades and growing rapidly in many countries, including Indonesia. Processed food especially ultra-processed food (UPF) as part of NOVA classification had known to contain obesogenic nutrients which were high energy-dense, fatty, sugary, and salty may lead to higher body mass index-for-age (BAZ). Objective: The study aimed to assess the correlation between UPF and BAZ among school-age children 10-12 years old in Surabaya. Methods: A cross-sectional study and data collection were conducted in three public and private schools in Surabaya, East Java Indonesia from March-April 2020. Elementary students in the 4th and 5th grades were enrolled and 136 students were randomly selected as respondents. Weight and height measurements were obtained for calculating the BAZ, and UPF consumption was obtained by food frequency questionnaire. Structured questionnaires and physical activity questionnaires for children (PAQ-C) were used to assess socio-demographic status, physical activity level, energy intake, and sedentary screen time. ANOVA test was done for bivariate analysis and linear regression for multivariate analysis, all data analyzed used SPSS version 20. Results: The result found a mean of BAZ was 0.31 SD; 35.3% of respondents were in the 1st tercile of UPF consumption. Most of the respondents had inadequate TEI and low PAL. No significant association was found between UPF consumption and BAZ (p=0.217). Only physical activity that significant in multivariate analysis (p=0.032) Conclusion: It was necessary to distinguish the type of obesogenic and non-obesogenic UPF to get a clear correlation between UPF consumption and BAZ among school-age children.

Do Physical Fitness and Executive Function Mediate the Relationship between Physical Activity and Academic Achievement? An Examination Using Structural Equation Modelling.

Background: Physical activity health benefits are widely known. However, the association between physical activity, physical fitness, executive function, and academic performance need further investigation. Additionally, one of the literature gaps reveals scarce and mixed findings on what mediators of physical activity may affect academic achievement. Purpose: This investigation aims to provide knowledge about the mediation role of physical fitness and executive function in the association of physical activity with academic achievement in a cohort of Spanish schoolchildren using a structural equation modelling approach. Methods: The data for this cross-sectional study were collected from a convenience sample of children from Spain (Balearic Islands) aged between 9 and 13 years. Physical activity levels were self-reported with the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children; physical fitness was assessed using the International Fitness Scale; executive function was assessed with the Trail Making Test, and children’s achievements were collected from the school records. Structural equation modelling was used to explore the relationship between physical activity, physical fitness, executive function, and academic achievement. Findings: Statistically significant positive direct associations were observed between physical activity and physical fitness (β = 0.46, 95% CI [0.29, 0.64]), physical fitness and executive function (β = 0.28, 95% CI [0.04, 0.52]), and executive function and academic achievement (β = 0.46, 95% CI [0.28, 0.65]), while adjusting for the confounding effects of sex and body mass index. Furthermore, indirect associations were observed between physical activity and executive function mediated by physical fitness (β = 0.13, bias-corrected 95% CI [0.02, 0.31]) and between physical fitness and academic achievement through executive function (β = 0.13, bias-corrected 95% CI [0.03, 0.32]). Conclusions: This investigation adds to the literature with evidence supporting the idea that regular PA leads to improvements in physical fitness and may support cognitive skills and academic performance in children.

Convergent validity of the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C): assessing moderate-to-vigorous or total physical activity?

ABSTRACT This study examines the convergent validity of the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) for assessing moderate-to-vigorous and total physical activity (PA) in school children. 430 participants (51.6% girls) aged 9–12 years provided valid accelerometer data (wGT3X-BT) and completed the PAQ-C. Convergent validity was assessed using Pearson correlations (r) and Bland-Altman plots. The PAQ-C total score was similarly associated with moderate-to-vigorous PA and total PA (r = .28 and .26, p < .001, respectively). 10- and 11-year-old groups were the only in which the PAQ-C was significantly associated with both accelerometer variables (p < .001). Girls showed higher associations (r = .31 for each, p < .001) than boys (r = .18 and .15 for moderate-to-vigorous PA and total PA, respectively, p < .05). Acceptable measurement bias for all age groups (range, 3.6–7%) was found. Researchers should be cautious when using the PAQ-C to assess moderate-to-vigorous PA in school children.

Physical Activity Levels in High School Students in West Java during the Covid-19 Pandemic

The study aimed to obtain empirical evidence about the direct impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the active lifestyle of high school students in West Java and the activities carried out during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study population included high school students in West Java, while the samples were chosen randomly, involving 1,715 students representing each district in West Java. The research method used was the descriptive quantitative method. The instrument used was a physical activity questionnaire for children (PAQ-C). Data analysis employed Microsoft Excel and SPSS 24. The results showed that the student's active life behavior before the Covid-19 pandemic was mostly distributed in the high (857 people, 50%) and moderate (824 people, 48%) categories. Meanwhile, during the Covid-19 pandemic, the most distribution was in a low category (847 people, 49%). The level of student active behavior before the covid-19 pandemic was in the high category, while the level of student active behavior during the covid-19 pandemic was in a low category. This data showed that the COVID-19 pandemic decreased the student's active living behavior from the moderate to the low category. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the activities carried out were jogging, traditional sports, football, volleyball, badminton, basketball, futsal, Pencak Silat, strength training, and gymnastics. Meanwhile, the activities carried out during the pandemic included sunbathing, walking, jogging, cycling, watching more TV, playing games, sleeping, sitting around, and helping the elderly.

Physical Activity in Paediatric Long QT Syndrome Patients.

Physical activity (PA) is important for cardiovascular health as well as social and emotional well-being of children. Patients with long QT syndrome (LQTS) often face PA restrictions and are often prescribed beta-blockers for disease management. The aim of this study was to determine if PA levels were lower in patients with LQTS compared with healthy controls. Participants with LQTS from an inherited arrhythmia clinic completed the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children and Adolescents (PAQ-C/A) and an exercise stress test. PAQ score (a general measure of PA for youth, unitless) and endurance time were compared with healthy controls. Twenty-three patients with LQTS completed the PAQ and had an exercise stress test within a year of having completed the PAQ. No difference was observed in PAQ scores between LQTS and control groups (LQTS: 2.3 ± 0.15 vs controls: 2.3 ± 0.18; P= 0.78). There was no effect of age on PA in patients with LQTS (P > 0.05), whereas PA significantly decreased in controls with age (eg, 11-12 vs 17-20 years: 3.2 ± 0.07 vs 1.5 ± 0.08, P= 0.005). Endurance time and heart rate at peak exercise were significantly lower in patients with LQTS compared with controls (11 ± 0.5 vs 15 ± 0.5 minutes, P < 0.0001; 169 ± 5 vs 198 ± 2 beats per minute, P < 0.0001). Despite guideline recommendations restricting PA, risk of sudden cardiac death, and use of beta-blockers, our cohort of patients with LQTS reported similar PA levels as healthy controls.

Association of physical activity level with body composition in 12-14 years old children: A pilot study

Objective: The prevalence of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents increased dramatically. Reduced regular physical activity (PA) is considered one of the major factors behind this worldwide epidemic and related health problems. This study aimed to determine the association between PA level and body composition components in 12-14 years old girls and boys living in Altındağ district, Ankara. Materials and methods: A total of 234 boys and 224 girls aged 12-14 years participated in this study. PA level was assessed by the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C) and body composition was measured by bioelectric impedance. Two-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc test and Pearson Correlation Coefficient tests were used in data analysis. Results: Findings of the study showed that children aged 12 years had higher total PA score than aged 13 and 14 years (p&lt;0.05), showing decreased PA level with age. Boys had significantly higher total PA score in all age groups than girls (p&lt;0.05). Girls with healthy weight and overweight showed significantly higher total PA score than girls with obesity. Girls had higher fat mass and body fat percentage than boys in all age groups (p&lt;0.05). Fat mass was inversely associated with total PA score in all age groups (12 years old r=-0.28; p&lt;0.001, 13 years old r=-0.16; p=0.047, 14 years old r=-0.21; p=0.007). Conclusions: PA participation of children declines with age. Reduced PA level is significantly associated with increased fat mass, indicating the importance of PA in maintaining a healthy weight in this age group.