This study examined associations between physical fitness factors and physical activity in a group of youth from households designated as in the poverty level by the U.S. Government (n=112). While the benefits of physical activity have been discussed in the research literature, little has been established on the physical activity habits of youth from impoverished households. Students selected for this study were participants in a 5-week government sponsored youth sports program for youth ages 10 to 16 from inner city neighborhoods. Design: Students completed the Previous Day Physical Activity Recall prior to the commencement of the program. Each youth then underwent physical fitness testing to estimate two VO2 max scores (calculated from skinfold measurements and BMI), maximum number of sit-ups performed in 30-seconds, a flexibility score from the sit-and-reach testing protocol, and timed performance on a 1-mile run/walk. The VO2 max scores as well as the other fitness measures were utilized to correlate physical fitness with activity levels (moderate to vigorous physical activity 3.0 to 6.0 METs; vigorous physical activity >6.0 METs). Multiple regression analyses were utilized to identify independent predictors of physical fitness levels. Results: Regression analyses disclosed that stated physical activity profiles predicted physical fitness status among these groups of youth. Correlations between performance of the physical fitness testing components and fitness status defined by VO2 max estimates ranged from .75 to .83. Additionally, this study examined differences between males and females for the physical fitness correlates. Physical activity and fitness did not differ significantly by gender. The findings of this study suggest further research into the physical activity habits of impoverished youth and the extent community recreational facilities available to neighborhoods address the need to enhance physical activity patterns in youth. Keyword(s): community-based programs, physical activity, youth-at-risk