Correlates of break-time physical activity in South African primary school learners: SOPLAY

Abstract

Introduction: There are concerning trends for a decline in time spent in physical activity and physical education and increased sedentary time in South African schoolchildren. ‘HealthKick’ is a primary school-based intervention for low-income settings that aims to promote healthy eating and physical activity through Action Planning. We were particularly interested in school break-time, as a possible target for intervention. Factors that have previously been shown to positively influence physical activity during break-time include: playground markings and renovations, teacher supervision and the availability of loose equipment.