Sedentary activity bout length was associated with BMI and waist circumference in Swedish children aged 5–7 years

Abstract

Aim: This study examined the pattern of sedentary behaviour during the week and on weekends and associations with health outcomes among children aged 5–7 years in Sweden. Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from 342 children, many of whom had at least one parent born outside the Nordic region. Physical activity and sedentary time were measured by accelerometry. A sedentary bout was defined as 1–4 and 5–9 min. Diet, time in front of television or computer screen, sleep and physical activity behaviour were measured via parental reports, and anthropometric data by research staff. Results: The number of sedentary bouts was higher on weekends than on weekdays. Compared to girls, boys had more 1–4 min bouts on both weekdays and weekend days, and more 5–9 min bouts on weekends. A higher number of 5–9 min bouts was associated with a higher body mass index and waist circumference. Conclusion: This study showed an association between sedentary activity and weight status in children as young as 5–7 years. Reducing time, especially longer bouts, spent in sedentary activities may encourage healthy weight development in children.