Is Measuring Physical Literacy in School-Aged Children With Cystic Fibrosis or Congenital Heart Disease Needed?

Purpose: To explore the association between cardiorespiratory fitness and other physical literacy domains in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) or congenital heart disease (CHD).

Methods: In 28 children with CF (n = 10) or CHD (n = 18), aged 7 to 11 years, cardiorespiratory fitness and the following physical literacy domains were measured: ( a ) physical competence, ( b ) motivation and confidence, ( c ) knowledge and understanding, and ( d ) daily behavior (ie, self-perceived moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA]).

Results: Cardiorespiratory fitness was significantly associated with motivation and confidence and self-perceived MVPA. There were no other significant associations.

Conclusions: Cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with self-perceived MVPA, motivation, and confidence in children with CF or CHD.