Unraveling the Dynamics Between Motor Skill Competence, Physical Activity, Perceived Motor Competence, Health- Related Fitness, and Weight Status in Children: A Spiral of (Dis)Engagement?

The goal of this study was to expand knowledge on the longitudinal relationships between motor skill competence, physical activity, perceived motor competence, health-related fitness, and weight status and its age dependency in children between 6 and 11 years old. Participants were Dutch primary school children (N = 1,268 children, 49.4% boys and 50.6% girls) divided over three age groups, Group 1 (5.5–7.49 years), Group 2 (7.5–9.49 years), and Group 3 (9.5+ years). Measurements were done at baseline (T1) and 1 year later (T2). Structural equation modeling resulted in a final model with an excellent fit to the data, χ2(40) = 34,783, p = .704, root mean square error of approximation < .001, comparative-fit index = 1.000, standardized root mean square residual = .023. Results demonstrated that all variables showed significant autoregressive relationships over time, ranging between β = 0.3 (perceived motor competence, Group 1) and β = 0.9 (weight status, Groups 2 and 3). Furthermore, physical activity predicted motor skill competence (p < .05), but motor skill competence did not predict physical activity. The cross-lagged relationships did not change with age. Distinct pathways were identified for boys and girls. The key finding is that all variables are interrelated which supports the idea of a spiral of (dis)engagement. Hence, a multifaceted approach will be most beneficial to support the healthy development of children.