Changes in physical activity patterns of students from primary to secondary school: a 5-year longitudinal study

This study aimed to annually examine anthropometric characteristics and physical activity (PA) among children transitioning from fourth grade (9–10 years of age) to eighth grade (13–14 years of age) in Japan. The participants’ (n = 63) age, grade, sex, weight, height, and weight status were recorded at baseline. Accelerometry assessments were performed annually following established protocols. Time spent on activities requiring ≥ 3 metabolic equivalents (METs), 1.6–2.9 METs, and ≤ 1.5 METs were defined as moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA (MVPA), light PA (LPA), and sedentary behavior (SB), respectively. Two linear mixed models were used to examine whether MVPA, LPA, and SB min/day changed over time. Fifty-five participants provided complete data. A significant, nonlinear, longitudinal decline in MVPA, an increase in SB, and a linear decline in LPA were observed. Changes in MVPA and SB were accelerated in seventh grade (12–13 years of age). Male sex and maintenance of normal weight status were associated with higher MVPA levels. Changes in LPA and SB were not associated with sex or weight status. During the transition period from primary to secondary school, MVPA and SB showed nonlinear accelerations. Sex and normal weight were associated with more time spent performing MVPA.