Associations between class-level factors and student physical activity during physical education lessons in China
2024

Factors Affecting Student Physical Activity in PE Classes in China

Sample size: 284 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Zhou Yulan, Wang Lijuan, Chen Ruzhuan, Wang Bingnan

Primary Institution: Zhejiang Normal University

Hypothesis

The study aims to explore the association between class-level factors and student engagement in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) during PE lessons.

Conclusion

Class-level factors may affect students’ MVPA differently depending on the school level, and these modifiable factors should be targeted to increase MVPA time in PE classes.

Supporting Evidence

  • Students in elementary school spent 40.3% of PE lesson time in MVPA.
  • Significant relationships were found between MVPA and class-level factors like lesson location and PE content.
  • Elementary school students recorded higher MVPA during lessons with team games and skill practice.

Takeaway

This study found that how PE classes are organized can change how much students move during class, and different factors matter more for younger or older students.

Methodology

The study used mixed linear regression analysis to assess the association between class-level factors and MVPA during PE lessons, with data collected from 284 lessons across ten schools.

Potential Biases

Potential for reactive behavior from students and teachers due to the presence of researchers observing the lessons.

Limitations

The findings may not be generalizable beyond the specific schools in Shanghai, and the cross-sectional design limits causal inferences.

Participant Demographics

Students from elementary and middle schools in Shanghai, with a mix of genders.

Statistical Information

Confidence Interval

95% CI = −12.265, −4.290

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/s12966-024-01703-6

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