Associations between basic motor competencies and physical fitness in Spanish pre-schoolers: a cross-sectional study.

backgroundBasic motor competencies (BMC) play a vital role in child development and are a primary focus of physical education. However, there is a lack of research on BMC in preschool-aged children, making this study particularly significant. The present study aims to examine the relationship between BMC and physical fitness components in Spanish preschool children.

methodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted on 101 children (n = 52 boys, average age of 4.80 years) living in Pamplona, North Spain. Components of physical fitness (handgrip strength, standing long jump, speed-agility, and cardiorespiratory fitness) were assessed using the PREFIT Battery. Overall physical fitness was computed from the four selected fitness components separately for boys and girls. Higher z-scores values in physical fitness indicate better fitness performance. To assess BMC, the MOBAK KG test battery was applied (subscales of object control and self-movement). Sex, age, and body mass index were used as main confounders.

resultsAfter adjustment for confounding factors, the BMC was positively associated with single (z-scores) components and overall physical fitness sum of z-scores (R

conclusionsOur results revealed that higher BMC is associated with better physical fitness in Spanish preschool children. The findings emphasize the crucial role that basic motor competence plays in promoting physical activity in preschool children.