The aim of this study was to provide an explanatory prediction model for physical activity level in children, involving a number of influencing variables. In total, 1971 people participated in the study: 657 primary school students and their respective fathers and mothers from 15 schools of Galicia (Spain). The International Questionnaire on Physical Education, Health and Lifestyle was administered. The findings revealed that school year, sex, physical perceived competence and sport practice with friends had a statistically significant relationship on physical activity index. By contrast, the association between the weekly participation of fathers or mothers in sports in the practice of children could not be confirmed. Sport practice with friends was the main predicting variable for physical activity level. Physical perceived competence showed great relevance as well. This knowledge could be of interest to help increase adherence to practice and preventing withdrawal, helping students to stay active and acquire healthy habits for the future.
Keywords: decision trees; friendships; gender; perceived motor competence; predicting variables; student’s perceptions.