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 diseases. 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 children (7–11 years) with and without DCD (n = 9/group) participated. Motor coordination, physical activity, strength, cardiovascular fitness, body mass index (BMI), and family factors were measured. Children with DCD participated in significantly less MVPA and had higher BMIs and decreased strength and cardiovascular fitness. Strength, activity 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 motor abilities, and parent activity participation should be considered to maximize health benefits associated with MVPA for children with DCD.

KEYWORDS. :

• Developmental coordination disorder
• exercise
• fitness
• motor development

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Monique Beutum, BAppSc(OT)Hons is an Occupational Therapist at Calvary Health Care Sydney, Australia. Reinie Cordier, PhD is a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Molecular Sciences at James Cook University, Australia. Anita Bundy, ScD, OTR, FAOTA, is Professor and Chair of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sydney.