Physical education in the primary school is an integral part of the individual educational process. In Italy and in other EU countries, a sedentary lifestyle has become an increasingly dominant feature of childhood lifestyle. It is a social and cultural issue that concerns both sexes, involving all age groups and social classes. Levels of physical activity during childhood and adolescence decrease with age, and the time spent in physical education is reduced in both primary and secondary schools. The aim of the study was to examine physical activity levels, motor performance, and perceived physical ability in 67 Italian primary school students. Physical activity levels were measured using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children, while individuals’ perceptions of strength, speed, and agility were assessed using the Perceived Physical Ability Scale for Children. Fitness test of standing long jump, 20 m sprint, 4 × 10 shuttle-run and 1 kg medicine-ball throw were also administered. Boys showed better motor performance and reported higher physical activity levels and perceived physical ability scores than girls. Results may provide support for teachers and parents in complying daily physical activity guidelines for children. The role of the school and family in promoting physically active lifestyles among children is essential.

Physical Activity Levels, Motor Performance and Perceived Physical Ability in Children

BORGOGNI, Antonio;
2011-01-01

Abstract

Physical education in the primary school is an integral part of the individual educational process. In Italy and in other EU countries, a sedentary lifestyle has become an increasingly dominant feature of childhood lifestyle. It is a social and cultural issue that concerns both sexes, involving all age groups and social classes. Levels of physical activity during childhood and adolescence decrease with age, and the time spent in physical education is reduced in both primary and secondary schools. The aim of the study was to examine physical activity levels, motor performance, and perceived physical ability in 67 Italian primary school students. Physical activity levels were measured using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children, while individuals’ perceptions of strength, speed, and agility were assessed using the Perceived Physical Ability Scale for Children. Fitness test of standing long jump, 20 m sprint, 4 × 10 shuttle-run and 1 kg medicine-ball throw were also administered. Boys showed better motor performance and reported higher physical activity levels and perceived physical ability scores than girls. Results may provide support for teachers and parents in complying daily physical activity guidelines for children. The role of the school and family in promoting physically active lifestyles among children is essential.
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11580/16641
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