Research supports a correlation between physical activity level and obesity; however, there is no definitive method for measuring physical activity level in children. This study will determine if test results of the Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER) and the results of average activity levels recorded in the form of activity logs, including pedometer data, are an effective means of determining an individual’s risk of developing childhood obesity as measured using Body Mass Index (BMI). Seventy-six participants (n=37, boys n=39) in grades 3, 4, and 5 took part in a study comparing BMI to PACER and number of steps using a pedometer. Data were computed using the Pearson product moment correlation relating average steps in time to BMI, and PACER scores to BMI to determine if a significant relationship existed. The results indicated the relationships between BMI and PACER, and BMI and pedometer steps were low, suggesting that a portion of this total variance may be explained by other measures.

Paper presented to the 3rd Annual Symposium on Graduate Research and Scholarly Projects (GRASP) held at the Hughes Metropolitan Complex, Wichita State University, April 27, 2007.Research completed at the Physical Therapy Department, College of Health Professions