Participation in sport in childhood and adolescence: Implications for adult fitness

Abstract Objectives To investigate whether participation in sport during the developmental stages of life are associated with cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in adulthood. Design Observational longitudinal study. Methods Participants were Generation 2 of the Raine Study. Questionnaires related to participation in sport were administered at ages 5, 8, 10, 14 and 17 years. These data were used to develop sex-specific trajectories of sports participation: (for males) Consistent Participators, Drop-Outs and Joiners; and (females) Consistent Participators, Non-Participators and Drop-Outs. At age 28.3±0.6yrs, participants completed a graded maximal exercise test (i.e. VO2peak test). General liner model assessed differences in CRF between trajectories. Results 402 participants n=231 (57.5%) male, n=171 (42.5%) female were included in the study. In males, Consistent Participators (all P 0.050) or Non-Participators and Drop-Outs (p>0.050). Conclusion Participation in sport during childhood and adolescence is associated with greater fitness in adulthood, compared to individuals who never participate or those that cease participation in adolescence. A simple dichotomous question regarding sports participation over the childhood and adolescent period can be implemented to predict better fitness outcomes in young adulthood. Childhood and adolescence could be an opportune stage in life for parents, schools and governments to facilitate participation in sport and prevent drop out, as it may have an impact on long term risk reduction, with associated health and economic benefits.