Comparing Activity Patterns, Biological, and Family Factors in Children with and Without Developmental Coordination Disorder

Abstract

The association between motor proficiency and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) suggests children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) may be susceptible to inactivity-related conditions such as cardiovascular dis- eases. The aim of this study was to compare children with and without DCD on physical activity patterns, activity types, body composition, strength, and cardiovascular fitness. Additionally, factors potentially influencing MVPA were also explored. Eighteen chil- dren (7–11 years) with and without DCD (n = 9/group) participated. Motor coordina- tion, physical activity, strength, cardiovascular fitness, body mass index (BMI), and fam- ily factors were measured. Children with DCD participated in significantly less MVPA and had higher BMIs and decreased strength and cardiovascular fitness. Strength, activ- ity type, and family factors correlated significantly with MVPA for children with DCD. The results suggest that strength, activity types, parent perception of their child’s mo- tor abilities, and parent activity participation should be considered to maximize health benefits associated with MVPA for children with DCD.