Adolescents spent an average of 9.7 min in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in the before-school segment.

Most before-school MVPA took place in locations away from the home and school settings.

Boys were significantly more active than girls at school during this segment, but no gender differences were identified in other settings.

Most adolescents do not meet physical activity (PA) guidelines. The before-school segment has been identified as one promising opportunity for intervention; however, there is a need for contextual understanding of PA in this segment. This study aimed to examine: a) adolescents' PA levels across various locations before school (6:00am – school start), b) contributions of before-school PA to daily PA and PA guidelines, and c) correlates of location-specific before-school PA. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using adolescents' (n = 148, mean age 14.7) accelerometer and GPS data. Adolescents averaged 9.7 min in before-school moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), representing substantial contributions to daily activity. Most MVPA occurred away from home and school. Significant correlates included segment duration, age, socio-economic status, and PA self-efficacy. Future work should consider these patterns and correlates to support adolescents’ PA through targeted interventions.

Before-school

Physical activity

Adolescents

Correlates

Location

© 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.