Introduction: The importance of physical activity is well investigated, but the knowledge regarding the physical activity of younger children is limited. Accelerometers have proved to be a valid method to measure physical activity in children.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the total level of physical activity (relative to recommended level) in children in grade three at a school in northern Sweden. Furthermore, the study investigated whether there are any differences in physical activity based on gender or participation in organized sports.
Method: Forty children participated in the study. Their level of physical activity was measured using tri-accelerometry technology during one week. Each participant also completed a short questionnaire regarding their level of physical activity.
Results: No significant difference was found in the level of physical activity in relation to gender or participation in organized sports. All but one participant reached the recommended level of daily activity.
Discussion: Based on the study, children in grade three appear to be sufficiently active to achieve the daily level of activity, a positive result in spite of the alarming reports of increased sedentary behavior among children. Intensified studies are needed to see if these results recur in a broader context.