Is Fitness Level in Childhood Associated With Physical Activity Level as an Adult?

The purpose of this study was to examine the possible influence of childhood physical fitness oil physical activity level and some of its psychosocial determinants as an adult. Childhood (age 10-12 years) data from the longitudinal Trois-Rivieres Growth and Development Study (body mass index, Physical Work Capacity (PWC(170))), number of sit-ups/min, left + right hands grip strength) were correlated with adult data (age 35.0 +/- 0.3 years) for physical activity (PA) level, attitude toward PA, intention to exercise, perceived barriers to exercise and support of an active lifestyle by significant others. No significant relationships between childhood physical fitness and adulthood PA were found. Although the sample size is relatively small, our data suggest that the preadolescent physical fitness level has no measurable impact on adult habitual PA, attitudes toward PA, intentions to exercise, perceived barriers to exercise or support from the individual's entourage.