Investigation into the relationship between adolescents’ perceived and actual fundamental movement skills and physical activity

Abstract Objectives: To explore the relationship between fundamental movement skill (FMS) competence, perceived FMS competence and physical activity (PA) in adolescents. Methods: The Test of Gross Motor Development (TGMD), the TGMD-2 and the Victorian Skills manual were used to assess FMS competence (locomotor, object control and stability). The Physical Self Confidence scale was used to assess perceived FMS competence (locomotor, object control and stability). Moderate to vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) was measured via accelerometry. Multi-level modelling analyses was used to examine: (i) actual FMS as the predictor and perceived FMS as the outcome, (ii) perceived FMS as the predictor and MVPA as the outcome, and (iii) actual FMS as the predictor and MVPA as the outcome. All analyses were completed for each subtest of FMS (locomotor, object control and stability). Results: A total of 584 adolescents (boys n = 278) aged 12.82 – 15.25 years (M 13.78, SD .42) participated in this study. Actual stability was associated with perceived stability (p<.01) and MVPA (p<.05) in boys. This was not found true for girls, however actual locomotor skills were associated with MVPA (p≤.05). Boys scored significantly higher than girls for FMS proficiency, perceived FMS and MVPA (p<.05). Discussion: Gender differences may exist due to cultural gender differences in sport participation norms. Considering the magnitude of physical and psychological changes occurring during adolescence, it is recommended to track young people over time to better understand the relationship between perceived and actual FMS, as well as PA participation. Keywords: physical activity, motor competence, adolescents