The effect of physical education content on children’s activity during recess based on skill level

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate voluntary participation of lower-, average, and higher skilled children during parkour recess and MVPA in physical education, parkour recess and regular recess. In total 147 (55 girls, 92 boys) elementary children from seven schools participated. During (i.e., generalization) and after (i.e., maintenance) a 10-lesson parkour unit was taught, five parkour recess sessions were organized. Systematic observation was used to assess children’s physical activity levels. Average skilled children participated more (74%) in parkour recess compared to higher skilled children (55%; p=.002). No differences were found for MVPA between lower-, average -and higher skilled children in any of the settings. Regardless of skill level, children voluntarily participated in parkour recess with MVPA levels 15-20% higher compared to regular recess. These findings are especially important for lower-skilled children, who are more at risk for lower participation in physical activities and adhering to physical activity guidelines