To Move More and Sit Less: Does Physical Activity/Fitness Knowledge Matter in Youth?

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine physical activity (PA)/fitness knowledge and its association with PA and sedentary behavior in youth. Method: Eighth grade students from five schools ( N = 660) in a midwestern state completed a PE Metrics written test and the Youth Activity Profile to assess PA/fitness knowledge, PA (at school and after school) and sedentary behavior, respectively. Results: Participants were clustered into high, medium, and low knowledge groups. Students in the high knowledge group reported higher level of PA after school ( p < .05, d = .28) but lower level of sedentary behavior than the low knowledge group ( p = .001, d = -.45). The low knowledge group also reported higher PA at school ( p < .05, d = .25). PA/Fitness knowledge significantly predicted sedentary behavior, particularly in the low knowledge group (β = -.32, t = -2.46, p < .05, R 2 = .105), after controlling for gender and race/ethnicity. Conclusion: Physical education focused on conveying PA/fitness knowledge is warranted to educate youth to move more and sit less.