WHAT IS THE SKIP STUDY?
The overall goal of the SKIP study was to try to understand the influence that physical activity in the early years has on health during the school years. The early years are known as a critical period for the development of active living behaviours. But we did not know if the benefits of physical activity can be “banked” over time or if health status is influenced more by recent physical activity levels. This study was funded by a grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
In 2010, our research team began conducting the Health Outcomes and Physical activity in Preschoolers (HOPP) study. This study followed the physical activity and health of approximately 400 boys and girls ages 3, 4, and 5 over three years. The SKIP study allowed us to continue following these children as they grew into school-aged kids.
WHAT DID THE STUDY INVOLVE?
Starting in Fall 2015, children aged 6-11 years old who had taken part in the HOPP study were asked to participate in the SKIP study. Here they completed annual assessments of health measures, fitness, nutrition and physical activity, similar to the HOPP study.
- Fitness: bike and treadmill tests
- Motor skills: balance, movement, and object control skills
- Body composition: muscle and fat
- Heart health
- Physical activity
- Nutrition
WHAT WERE THE RESULTS?
Below is a link to an article published based on findings from the SKIP study. We are still putting together results, so stay tuned for further publications!
WHERE CAN I FIND INFORMATION ON PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR MY PRESCHOOLER?
Check out our newsletter, Preschooler Focus – the Preschooler Focus has information on physical activity and development in the early years. And follow us on Facebook, where we post about our research, as well as ways to increase your family’s activity levels.