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Introduction: Physical inactivity is regarded as one of the main factors that have contributed to the rapid increase in prevalence of childhood obesity in recent decades. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether participation in a family-based multifactor intervention program could increase physical activity among overweight and obese children.

Methods: 105 children, mean age 10.5 years (SD±1.09), with overweight and obesity living in northern Sweden were recruited and randomized into an intervention or control group. The intervention group was invited to participate in a program aiming at improving lifestyle regarding food habits and physical activity. The children’s physical activity was measured during 4 days at baseline and after 1 year with SenseWear Armband.

Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the groups neither at either baseline or 1 year, regarding energy expenditure, steps/day, time being sedentary (< 3 MET), and time being active at different MET-levels. For all children, time being active ≥ 3 MET significantly decreased with 44.5 (111) min/d from baseline to 1-year. Despite the decrease in physical activity, the children were physically active ≥ 3 MET during 4.1 (1.6) h/d at 1-year.

Conclusion: Physical activity decreased with increased age among overweight and obese children, despite extensive effort of intervention. To make future interventions worthwhile it is important to consider the participant’s physical activity level before entering the study, when planning and setting up the intervention program; to comprise the participant’s individual goals regarding physical activity; and to focus specifically on decreasing time being sedentary.