Physically Active Learning: An intervention experience against sedentary lifestyle in primary education

Abstract

The objective was analyzed the effect of a physically active lesson program on school-time physical activity, physical condition, satisfaction with their school life and academic achievement of primary school students. A quasi-experimental study was developed in which 50 students from the fifth grade of primary education participated (M_age = 10.62; DT = 0.57). Students in the experimental group (n = 25) participated in a physically active learning program during eight-week within the bilingual natural science subject, that included a weekly physically active lesson that added to the two physical education lessons. The results showed that the implementation of an physically active learning program significantly increased school-time physical activity levels, certain values of their physical condition, the relationship of students with their teacher, the interest in the subject and the perception of their health status. These results highlight the importance of including physically active lessons during the school day, which complement the physical activity levels developed during the physical education subject.