IMPROVEMENT IN ELEMENTARY STUDENTS PREFERENCE FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ENGAGEMENT FOLLOWING PHYSICAL LITERACY PROGRAMMING

Abstract

How children perceive their physical ability and body image can impact their involvement in physical activities. Teaching children basic mechanics and exposing them to new activities may increase the likelihood of selecting a physically active option versus a passive option. PURPOSE: The purpose of this research was to examine the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and self-perception of adequacy in and enjoyment of physical activity following implementation of a six-week physical literacy (PL) intervention. METHODS: Students (n=82) in grades 2-5 completed the Children’s Self-Perceptions of Adequacy and Predilection for Physical Activity (CSAPPA) scale pre- and post- PL intervention. The PL intervention program consisted of a once weekly, 30-minute program conducted by trained individuals during the school day. This program was designed to focus on the mechanics of running, jumping, and throwing. Height and weight were measured pre- intervention to calculate BMI using the Center for Disease Control’s Youth and Teen calculator. RESULTS: A significant interaction between CSAPPA score and BMI category was found, (F (1,82) = 4.948, p < 0.05). Further evaluation of the interaction indicated that students in the unhealthy BMI category were more likely to choose an active over a passive physical activity option following the PL intervention. CONCLUSION: Based on the aforementioned results, PL programming seems favorable in improving self-perception of physical activity selection in children with abnormal BMIs. Previous research has shown that students who do not feel confident performing a task are less likely to participate. Following the trend of decreased exposure to physical activity during school, students with unhealthy BMIs are not getting proper exposure to the mechanics of movement. This may lead to less physical activity participation and increases in unhealthy BMI ranges. By teaching children that they can move proficiently, children are making more active choices possibly leading to improvements in self-perception.