ABSTRACT

Increased fatness, decreased aerobic fitness and a low level of physical activity are thought to be relevant factors for decreased health in children (e.g. Armstrong, 1989; Thompson et al., 2002; Lobstein et al., 2004). However, regular sports club participation is associated with a lower fatness and higher aerobic fitness level (e.g. Washington et al., 2001; Jago and Baranowski, 2004). Previous studies have mainly focused on the association between sports club participation and fatness and/or fitness in adults and adolescents. In contrast, the role of sports club participation on children’s fatness and fitness has not yet been addressed. Furthermore, parental support to perform physical activity, the performance of physical activity by parents and children together, and an environment which is promoting activity are PA enhancing factors (Sallis et al., 1992; Heitzler et al., 2006). Thus, the purpose of the present study was to assess the influence of sports club participation of children and their parents on fatness and aerobic fitness of the children.