Associations between extracurricular activity participation and health-related variables in underrepresented children.

Background: Children from underrepresented populations exhibit low levels of physical activity (PA), diet quality, and health-related quality of life (QoL), but participation in extracurricular activities may positively impact these health outcomes.

Purpose: To examine differences in PA, dietary behavior, and QoL in underrepresented children by extracurricular activity dose (0, 1, ≥2) and type (sports, dance/martial arts, art/music).

Methods: Children (N = 754; Grades 4-6) completed the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children, KidsScreen-27 (QoL), and the School Physical Activity and Nutrition Survey and self-reported extracurricular activity participation.