Relationship between Motor Skill Competence and Physical Activity in Girls

This study examined the relationship between motor skill competence, and physical activity in 8–9 years-old girls (N=352). Locomotor and object control skill competence was assessed, using the Test of Gross Motor Development-2, and the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children was used to assess physical activity. Regression analysis revealed that locomotor proficiency accounted for 20% (P = 0.001) of variance associated with self-reported moderate to vigorous physical activity. The findings warrant future investigations that examine interventions that focus on locomotor skills to promote physical activity in girls.