The association of physical growth and behavior change with Preschooler's physical fitness: From 10- years of monitoring data

Abstract

Background: This study examined the trends of physical fitness among children aged 3–6 years old and identified the factors associated with the change of children's physical fitness. Methods: Datum were from two cross-sectional surveys in 2005 and 2015. Children aged 3–6 years old in China Macao were recruited from 6 kindergartens. 6 kindergartens were selected from North, South and Central districts, and two kindergartens in each district using random cluster sampling in 2005. The same 6 kindergartens were selected in 2015. Physical fitness testing and a survey on children behavior were conducted for all children. Results: Standing long jump, shuttle run, sit and reach, and continuous jump of children in Macao improved significantly in some age groups from 2005 to 2015 (P < 0.05). Results of general linear model showed that: (1) The effect of height and weight on physical fitness was less than test year effect (standing long jump: partial η2 of height = 4.5%, partial η2 of time = 8.5%); (2) after adjusted age, gender and parental education level, participating in sports clubs was associated with standing long jump(β = 5.827,p = 0.048) and shuttle run (β = −0.759, p = 0.042) in 2015. Less sedentary entertainment time and participating in sports club were two Interactive protecting factors of improving throwing ability (β = 1.862, p = 0.045). Conclusions: The changes in height and weight were not the whole reason for the change of physical fitness among Macao preschoolers. The behaviors, including participating in sports clubs and the less time of watching TV were associated with children's running, jumping and throwing. Keywords: Young children, Physical fitness, Physical growth, Outdoor activity, Sports clubs