Individual predictors of overweight in children from the Zona da Mata of Minas Gerais

Abstract

The study aimed to estimate sex differences in body mass index (BMI), motor competence (MC), health-related physical fitness (HRPF), perceived motor competence (PMC), and physical activity (PA) and to identify individual predictors associated with overweight in Brazilian children. A cross-sectional study was conducted, sampling 217 Brazilian children aged between 6-10 years old. PA was measured through pedometers. MC and PMC were estimated, respectively, by the Test of Gross Motor Development (second edition) battery and the Pictographic Scale of Perceived Competence Assessment in Motor Skills, while the HRPF was estimated through abdominal, upper limb and lower strength, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory fitness tests. Height and weight were measured, and BMI was computed. Statistical analyses involved the use of the Mann Whitney U test and multiple logistic regression. Sex differences were observed for HRPF score, mean of weekend steps and total steps/week, favouring boys (p< 0.05). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that MC (OR= 0.97; 95%CI 0.92–0.98) and HRPF (OR= 0.78; 95%CI 0.66–0.93) were significantly associated with overweight, while any significant association were observed for PA and PMC. Results highlight that increases in MC and HRPF reduced the chances of children being overweight.