Correlates of objectively measured physical activity in adolescents with down syndrome: The up & down study

Introduction: correlates of physical activity (PA) have not been explored in adolescents with Down syndrome (DS). Understanding correlates of PA could provide information to develop strategies to increase levels of PA in this target population. Objective: the aim of this study was to identify potential correlates of PA in adolescents with DS. Method: information about levels of PA and their potential correlates was collected in 98 adolescents with DS (63 males, aged 11-20 years) using accelerometers and proxy-reported questionnaires. Analysis of covariance and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to examine correlates of PA. Result: our findings showed that participant’s age and socioeconomic status were associated with levels of PA as non-modifiable correlates. Also, parental support, father PA, television-viewing time with siblings and with friends were associated with levels of PA as modifiable correlates. Discussion and conclusion: both modifiable and non-modifiable factors are associated with levels of PA in adolescents with DS. Therefore, a better understanding of correlates of PA could contribute to develop strategies on PA promotion in adolescents with DS.