Physical Activity Beliefs Research Articles

Outdoor recess is associated with more positive attitudes toward physical activity among pre-adolescent students and their parents.

School day structure has the potential to increase students' physical activity (PA) levels and form positive attitudes about PA. Including various PA opportunities and free play possibilities in the school schedule, especially outdoor recess, can improve students' moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) levels during school time. Therefore, the main aim of the study was to investigate students' and their parents' attitudes about outdoor recess and PA opportunities in schools with different recess opportunities. Students from grades three to six (9-13-year-olds) and their parents responded to a questionnaire about the effect of outdoor recess and opportunities for PA during the school day. Schools were divided into three groups based on the recess opportunities during the school day: (1) "outdoor recess", (2) "outdoor recess on some days", (3) "indoor recess". Students and parents of the "outdoor recess" group had significantly more positive attitudes about outdoor recess and PA opportunities in school. Students of the "outdoor recess" group stated being significantly more active during their leisure-time compared to other groups. Parents of the "outdoor recess" group stated that the school has asked their opinion regarding PA opportunities during the school day significantly more compared to the other two groups. These findings emphasize the positive effect outdoor recess can have on students' PA beliefs and habits. Parents of the "outdoor recess" group also had more positive attitudes toward PA which is important as parents most likely convey their attitudes and beliefs to their children. In addition, involving and informing parents is critical when changing the school schedule and introducing new school culture, to make the changes last.

Ethnic differences in physical activity participation when managing gestational diabetes mellitus: a mixed-methods study comparing ethnic Chinese migrants and Australian women

ABSTRACT Background Physical activity is a key component in gestational diabetes mellitus management to optimise glycaemic control and reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, inadequate physical activity during pregnancy is common. Underpinned by a woman-centred pregnancy care model, appropriate strategies targeting patients’ cultural needs may facilitate physical activity participation. Ethnic Chinese migrants have a four-fold higher risk of gestational diabetes mellitus than the Australian Caucasian host population. To identify potentially effective disease management strategies to improve physical activity participation, understanding and comparing ethnic Chinese migrants’ and Caucasian women’s views will provide insights into developing an end-user-informed intervention. Aims This study aimed to compare perceptions and practices around physical activity participation during pregnancy between 44 ethnic Chinese migrants and 39 Australian-born Caucasian women with gestational diabetes mellitus. Methods This mixed-methods study used in-depth, semi-structured audio-recorded interviews, validated pregnancy physical activity questionnaires and pedometers. Qualitative data were thematically analysed and compared between ethnicities. SPSS (SPSS Inc) was used in quantitative data analysis. Data triangulation was made to identify patterns in participant characteristics, physical activity beliefs and participation. Results Despite both ethnic groups doing less physical activity than recommended, Chinese participants were less physically active than Caucasian participants. Chinese participants expressed greater safety concerns about physical activity and opted for a more sedentary lifestyle. Data triangulation indicated that non-Australian-born Chinese participants whose husbands were Asian were overcautious about miscarriage risk related to physical activity, which promoted a sedentary lifestyle. Chinese participants suggested individualised, specific physical activity advice on safe physical activity during pregnancy would mitigate their concerns. Caucasian participants reported that digital step measurement technologies motivated their participation in physical activity. Conclusion Different strategies are suggested by Chinese and Caucasian participants to improve physical activity participation to manage gestational diabetes mellitus among ethnic Chinese and Caucasian populations, which will be evaluated in future interventions.

Evaluating the utility of temporal self-regulation theory for understanding physical activity outcomes in a behavioral weight loss maintenance program

Objective Physical activity (PA) is critical for weight loss maintenance (WLM) success. Clarifying mechanisms behind PA engagement may suggest new WLM intervention targets. This study examined an application of temporal self-regulation theory (TST) to enhance our understanding of PA during WLM. Methods and measures Participants (n = 214) who achieved a ≥ 5% weight loss during a 4-month weight loss intervention were recruited into an 18-month WLM trial. TST constructs (i.e. PA beliefs, intention, behavioral prepotency, self-regulatory capacity) were measured via self-report measures. PA was subsequently assessed over a 7-day period with waist-worn Actigraph GT9X. Robust linear regression models and generalized linear mixed models tested the association between PA beliefs and intention, and the associations between intention, behavioral prepotency, self-regulatory capacity and device-measured PA at baseline and 18-months. Results Short-term positive beliefs were associated with intention at baseline and 18-months, whereas short-term negative beliefs were associated with intention at 18-months only. Intention was associated with moderate/vigorous PA (MVPA) minutes and bouted MVPA at baseline and 18-months. The intention by self-regulatory capacity interaction was significant at baseline. Conclusion Findings lend some support for the use of TST for understanding PA and suggest that short-term beliefs about PA may represent a meaningful target for intervention.

Family structure and the association with physical activity-Findings from 40 countries participating in the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study.

The family has been acknowledged as central to developing physical activity (PA) beliefs and behaviours. However, increased diversity in family structures has developed over the last decades. This study examines the association between family structure and PA among adolescents and cross-national variations in the associations. The data are from the 2013/14 Health Behaviours in School-Aged Children study, involving nationally representative samples of 11-, 13- and 15-year-olds (n = 211,798) from 40 countries. Multilevel Poisson regression analysis was used to examine the associations between family structure and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and vigorous physical activity (VPA) by age, gender, socioeconomic status (SES), and geographic region. Living with one versus two parents was associated with a reduced likelihood of daily 60 min MVPA for boys (IRR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.92, 0.99) and ≥ 4 times/week VPA (IRR 0.93, 95% CI: 0.91, 0.95). This impact on MVPA differed across individual-level SES (high SES; IRR = 0.92, (p <0.05), low SES; IRR = 1.04, (ns)), and was for VPA only significant for those with siblings (IRR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.91, 0.96). Cross-country variations in the association between living with one versus two parents were observed, most pronounced for VPA. These differences varied by region, primarily explained by country-level SES differences between regions. The likelihood of daily 60 min MVPA also increased with siblings in the main house (IRR 1.11, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.14), and ≥ 4 times/week VPA decreased with grandparents in the main house (IRR 0.91, 95% CI: 0.89,0.94). Family structure correlated with PA, but cross-country differences exist. The findings are relevant for the development of policies and programs to facilitate PA, especially in countries where living with one versus two parents was unfavourable. Additional country-specific research is needed to identify challenges for engaging in PA related to family structure.

Comparative Analysis Between Physical Activity Affect and Discrete Emotions in College Students

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate empirical distinctness and overlap between physical activity (PA) affect and emotions as well as potential unique relationships with PA beliefs and behaviors. Specifically, researchers wanted to explore the level of shared variance amongst discrete emotions and affect, which in effect tested the jingle-jangle fallacy that can be present in psychometric evaluation of related constructs. Participants: College students (N=519; Mage= 20.47) enrolled in PA courses at two universities in the Southeastern United States completed questionnaires concerning their PA related emotions, affect, self-efficacy, and self-reported PA. Methods: Confirmatory factor analysis and structural modeling were used to evaluate factor structure and hypothesized relationships. Results: Sound factor analysis was identified with affect related to several emotions, including strong correlations between enjoyment and positive affect, suggesting some construct and measurement intersection. Regression results showed emotions produced stronger relationships with self-efficacy and PA compared to affect. Conclusions: While conceptual overlap did exist, measuring several discrete emotions over the dichotomous affective measure may be more insightful and provide specificity in explaining PA decisions. More research is needed on the use of PA emotions.

Physical Activity Beliefs and Behaviors during Pregnancy and their Association with Provider Counseling among Women in the Southern United States

<strong>Background:</strong> Physical inactivity, obesity, and chronic disease rates during pregnancy are strikingly high in the Southern United States. The present study examined sociodemographic factors related to the beliefs and behaviors of women in the South regarding physical activity (PA) during pregnancy and whether women’s beliefs and behaviors during pregnancy were associated with provider counseling. <strong>Methods:</strong> A sample of 292 women in the South completed an online survey. Participants provided sociodemographic data and recalled health beliefs and PA from their recent pregnancy. Descriptive statistics and correlation analyses were used to describe and assess relationships between variables. Linear regressions examined the association between women’s beliefs and behaviors during pregnancy and provider counseling while controlling for sociodemographic factors. <strong>Results:</strong> There was large agreement among the sample. Feeling tired and lacking motivation were the main barriers to PA, and improved health was the primary benefit. Participants felt most susceptible to anxiety and depression. Providers were the leading source of support for PA, although provider counseling was not significantly correlated with increased PA. Participants engaged primarily in light household and caregiving activities. Sociodemographic factors had a stronger association with beliefs and behaviors than provider counseling. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Participants viewed PA as beneficial; however, they had specific barriers to exercise during pregnancy and did not perceive themselves as susceptible to common health conditions. Participants looked to providers as their primary support for PA, although provider counseling appears ineffective. Providers should encourage patients to be active using established counseling techniques such as motivational interviewing to support PA.

The effect of the health belief model-based educational program on physical activity beliefs and behaviors of university students

The effect of the health belief model-based educational program on physical activity beliefs and behaviors of university students

What Do We Want And Expect From Physical Therapy Led Treatment? A Qualitative Study Of People Living With Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome

PURPOSE: Physiotherapist-led treatment programs are recommended for patients with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAI syndrome). Patient views regarding such interventions are currently unknown, including perceptions of potential barriers and facilitators to participation and adherence. We aimed to explore patient perceptions of physiotherapist-led programs for FAI syndrome, including barriers and facilitators for accessing physiotherapy; and adhering to a rehabilitation program. METHODS: Our qualitative study used semi-structured interviews to explore the perceptions of patients with FAI syndrome undertaking physiotherapy-led interventions. The interview topic guide was informed by the Theoretical Domain Framework. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and data categories were developed using inductive thematic analysis. Themes were discussed between researchers until consensus was reached. RESULTS: Fourteen participants (mean (standard deviation) age: 30 (10) years) with a range of physical activity backgrounds undertook interviews. Five key themes were identified, 1) Patients believed their hip pain was caused by structural damage worsened through exercise; 2) Feasibility and expectations of physiotherapist-led programs varied between participants; 3) Perceptions regarding adjunct treatments validity varied between participants; 4) Variable physical activity beliefs; and 5) Barriers and facilitators for physiotherapist-led treatment. CONCLUSIONS: People with FAI syndrome believe they have structural damage which leads to their hip pain and are often afraid to exercise due to fear of causing more damage to their hip. Our findings provide in-depth patient perspectives of people with lived experience of FAI syndrome, who are key stake holders in the development and successful implementation of best-practice interventions for people with FAI syndrome

Indian nurses' beliefs on physical activity promotion practices for cancer survivors in a tertiary care hospital-a cross-sectional survey.

PurposeTo describe the physical activity (PA) promotion practices, beliefs, and barriers of Indian nurses working with cancer survivors, and to gain preliminary insights into how their educational qualification might affect PA promotion practices.MethodsA validated questionnaire was used to obtain the data (N = 388). Sub-group comparisons were performed based on nursing qualification i.e., Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc) and General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) using Mann-Whitney U test and chi square analysis for continuous and categorical variables, respectively.ResultsThe nurses believed that oncologists (47%) followed by physiotherapists (28.9%) were primarily responsible for providing information regarding PA to cancer survivors. The most common period in which the nurses’ promoted PA was post treatment (31.7%), although very few nurses (13.3%) promoted PA across more than one of the three treatment periods. Nurses felt that PA had many benefits for cancer survivors; improved mental health (87.7%) and HRQoL (81.1%). Lack of knowledge (42.2%) and lack of time (41.6%) were the most frequently cited barriers. The comparisons based on educational qualification did not typically reveal many significant differences.ConclusionIndian nurses both BSc and GNM qualified, wish to promote PA to cancer survivors despite numerous barriers, across various stages of treatment and believe PA is beneficial to the survivors in the process of recovery. Overcoming these barriers might aid in better promotion of PA to cancer survivors.Implication for cancer survivorsNurses working in a tertiary care hospital in India are willing to promote PA amongst cancer survivors but require more training and support in this area of practice.

Measuring Physical Activity Regulatory Styles and Identity Among Adults 55 Years or Older.

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of modified versions of the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire and Exercise Identity Scale for use with adults ages ≥55 years to measure regulatory styles and identity related to physical activity. Methods. Participants [Mage = 66.29 years (SD = 7.06)] answered an online questionnaire twice across a four-week timescale. We assessed measurement invariance and convergent and divergent validity based on relations between regulatory styles, identity, and physical activity. Results. Both measures were invariant across gender and time, and findings support the convergent and divergent validity of the scales. Notably, a two-factor model of identity representing role identity and physical activity beliefs provided the best fit, and physical activity beliefs was more strongly related to introjected regulation. Discussion. Taken together, there is evidence that these modified scales are suitable for use with adults ages ≥55 years.

Gender Differences Concerning Physical Activity Beliefs and Practices among Fourth and Fifth Graders in Rural Virginia

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Physical activity (PA) is a known preventative factor. It is recommended that children participate in 60 minutes of PA daily, but most do not meet these guidelines. Further, boys, aged 8-17 years, spend more time in PA than girls of the same age. The purposes of this study were to identify gender differences in PA beliefs and practices among fourth and fifth graders and to determine when gender disparities in self-confidence regarding PA and fitness occur. Subjects were 41 fourth (19 boys; 22 girls) and 33 fifth (16 boys; 17 girls) graders in a public elementary school in the rural northwest. They participated in the FitnessGram, a nationwide assessment of flexibility, aerobic capacity, and muscular strength and endurance, and a proctored survey about their PA beliefs, self-confidence, and participation. There were no differences in FitnessGram data between boys and girls for aerobic capacity or muscular strength and endurance, but girls had increased flexibility when compared to boys in both grades. Importantly, survey results showed fifth grade girls had less confidence they could improve their physical fitness (p = 0.002) or their overall health (p = 0.004) when compared to fourth grade girls. Research is needed to determine how these changes in self-confidence contribute to the gender gap in time spent in PA. We recommend physical education programs throughout all grades teach healthy behaviors, including time spent in PA, and work to build and maintain self-confidence in girls.

Associations between cardiometabolic risks and physical activity in early adulthood: a cross-sectional study

ObjectivesYoung adults’ physical activity (PA) is a foundation of creating future healthy lifestyles. The purpose of this study was to explore differences in PA, sedentary behaviour, walkability and health beliefs...

Physical Activity During and After Haematological Cancer Treatment: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Haematology Healthcare Professionals in the United Kingdom.

PurposeHealth professionals’ (HPs) knowledge of recommended guidelines for physical activity (PA) is thought to influence the advice they provide to their patients. Little is known about the knowledge or provision of PA advice by HPs working with haematological cancer patients. This study examined awareness of PA guidance, beliefs and practices in provision of advice given by UK HPs working with haematological cancer patients.MethodsOnline survey including questions on awareness of PA guidance, levels of agreement/disagreement with statements related to PA in haematological cancer and reported provision of advice in practice. Open text responses sought detail regarding guidance knowledge and exampled advice given by respondents. Predictors of familiarity of guidance and provision of advice were examined.ResultsComplete responses were received from 156 professionals, mostly nurses, allied HPs and doctors. Many (31%) reported knowing relevant guidance and nearly half (48.6%) reported routinely giving PA advice. Nurses and allied AHPs give advice to more patients than doctors and knowledge of guidelines among doctors was poor.ConclusionBeliefs of haematology professionals regarding the role of PA during and after treatment for haematological cancer were generally positive. Those reporting familiarity with guidance were more likely to give advice. Misalignment exists between guidelines and advice given by professionals to their patients. Increasing knowledge of guidelines among HPs, including nurses, may lead to increased provision of PA advice and promotion of PA to more of their patients. HPs education in haematology on PA guidance tailored to professional group is needed.

Do Control Beliefs Moderate the Relationship Between Function and Physical Activity?

Most older adults get far less than recommended levels of physical activity (PA), and interventions to improve PA have limited effectiveness. Barriers to PA include reduced physical function (PF) and diminished feelings of control, but their interactive influences on PA in older adults are unclear. Using two methodologies, the current study determined whether control beliefs modify the relationship between PF and PA. Data were from the second wave of the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study; the sample was constrained to participants with PA greater than 0 (n= 955, mean age= 54.27). PF (grip strength, gait speed, and chair stands) was measured during a clinic visit. Participants were asked about routine PA, from which a Metabolic Equivalent of Task score was calculated, and the extent to which they believed they have control over their life (0-7 scale). In linear regression models, including interactions between control beliefs and PF variables, gait speed and control were associated with PA; none of the interaction terms were significant. The second model used a person-centered approach to explore the potential of non-linear relationships and differences in groups of people by creating typologies. The group with low control and slow gait speed had significantly lower PA than the other three groups. Results suggest nuanced associations among PA, PF, and control beliefs where feelings of control may compensate for slow gait speed in particular. They also support the use of person-centered approaches to identify non-linear associations between modifiable protective factors and key outcomes in aging research.

Physical activity for people living with cancer: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of general practitioners in Australia.

Healthcare professionals' (Oncologists, doctors, and nurses) physical activity (PA) recommendations impact patients living with cancer PA levels. General practitioners (GPs) monitor the overall health of patients living with cancer throughout their treatment journey. This is the first study to explore GP's knowledge, attitudes and practices of PA for patients living with cancer. GPs who see patients living with cancer regularly (n = 111) completed a survey based on The Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). Participants (GP's) reported knowledge, attitudes, perceived behaviour control and subjective norms of PA within the cancer population. GP recommendation and referral rates of PA were reported. Principal component analysis was conducted to establish a set of survey items aligned to TPB constructs (attitude, subjective norms, perceived control), and multiple regression analyses characterised associations between these predictor variables and (a) recommendation; and (b) referral-of PA to cancer patients. GPs (n = 111) recommended PA to 41-60% of their patients and referred 1-20% to PA programs. Multiple regression models significantly predicted the percent of patients recommended PA, p < .0005 adj. R2 = 0.40 and referred PA, p < .0005, adj. R2 = 0.21. GP attitudes and perceived behavioural control and GP's own activity levels were significant predictors of whether patients were recommended and referred for PA, p<0.05. GPs reported positive attitudes and perceptions towards promoting PA for their patients living with cancer. Despite having a positive correlation between PA recommendations and referral rates, a gap was evident between GP's PA beliefs and their individual referral practices. More GP's willing to promote and refer their patients for PA, would improve the physical and mental health outcomes of the cancer population.

Beliefs, Benefits and Barriers Associated with Physical Activity: Impact of These Factors on Physical Activity in Patients With Type II Diabetes Mellitus

This study aimed to assess patients' levels of belief, benefits and barriers toward physical activity, and to identify factors associated with physical activity performance in patients with type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The study was carried out using cross-sectional correlation design. Subjects from the endocrinology and metabolism outpatient departments of a teaching hospital in northern Taiwan were recruited by consecutive sampling. A total of 149 patients with type II DM were recruited. More physical activity was associated with stronger physical activity beliefs, including recovery self-efficacy, action and coping planning, and maintenance self-efficacy, which explained 40.9% of variance in physical activity performance. Patient-centered physical activity programs (resistance exercise, daily walking, or Tai Chi exercise) can reduce patients' barriers toward performing physical activity.

A Causal Pathway of Physical Activity to Motor Competence in Childhood:Evidence from a School-based Intervention

ABSTRACT This study aimed to examine whether changes in physical activity (PA) after an 8-week pedometer-based intervention would result in changes on motor competence through competence beliefs towards physical education (PE). The study also evaluated whether the hypothesized causal pathway differed by gender. Participants were 259 children (Mean age = 10.88, SD =.78), randomly allocated to three intervention groups. Children’s PA, competence beliefs towards PE, and motor competence were measured at pre- and post-tests. Significant relationships between PA and competence beliefs towards PE were found at pre- and post-tests. The magnitude of the relationship between competence beliefs towards PE and motor competence was larger at post-test than at pre-test (.33 vs.20). The structural invariance test suggested that the differences between boys and girls for the hypothesized models were insignificant (CMIN = 15.97, df = 12; p =.193). In general, the results suggest that changes on PA may cause changes in competence beliefs towards PE, which could result in changes on motor competence in middle to later childhood, regardless of gender. These data offer the possibility of using competence beliefs towards PE as a mediator in PA interventions designed to increase motor competence in childhood.

Effect of a technology-supported physical activity intervention on health-related quality of life, sleep, and processes of behavior change in cancer survivors: A randomized controlled trial.

This pilot trial tested the effect of adding a multi-level, technology-based physical activity intervention module to a standard survivorship care plan for breast and colorectal cancer survivors. The objective of this analysis was to determine whether the physical activity module improved health-related quality of life, sleep, and factors key to lasting behavior change (eg, social support, self-efficacy). Breast and colorectal cancer survivors (n = 50) were enrolled alongside a support partner. Survivors were assigned to receive a standard survivorship care plan either alone or augmented by a 12-week multi-component physical activity module. The module included a Fitbit tracker (with the physical activity data integrated into the electronic health record for clinician review) and customized email feedback. Physical activity was measured using the ActiGraph GT3X+. Psychosocial outcomes included the SF-36, FACT, ISEL, PROMIS sleep measures, and physical activity beliefs. Data were analyzed using linear mixed modeling. Cancer survivors were aged 54.4 ± 11.2 years and were 2.0 ± 1.5 years from diagnosis. Relative to comparison, the intervention was associated with moderate-to-large improvements in physical health (effect size: d = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.0, 0.78), mental health (d = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.19, 0.99), sleep impairment (d = 0.62, 95% CI = -1.02, -0.22), and exercise self-efficacy (d = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.20, 1.0). The intervention delivered meaningful improvements in survivors' quality of life, social support, and sleep impairment. If replicated in a larger sample, adding a technology-supported physical activity module to survivorship care plans may be a practical strategy for supporting healthy survivorship. ClinicalTrials.gov#: NCT02677389.

Effect of Evidence-Based Materials and Access to Local Resources on Physical Activity Levels, Beliefs, and Motivation During Pregnancy in a Rural Setting

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of evidence-based educational materials and access to local resources on physical activity (PA) levels, beliefs, and motivation (including self-efficacy) regarding PA during pregnancy in a rural setting. Information on PA levels (step counts, Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire) and beliefs and motivation regarding PA (main surveys: Exercise Beliefs Questionnaire, Protection Motivation Theory and Health Action Process Approach) were collected between 8 and 16 weeks gestation. Women from a rural community were randomly assigned to the PA group (PAG, n = 38) or control group (n = 32). The PAG participants received an evidence-based educational brochure and access (at no charge to them) to local fitness facilities. At approximately 34 to 37 weeks gestation, baseline assessments were repeated. Sedentary time was significantly different between groups over time, with control participants increasing sedentary time and PAG participants decreasing sedentary time (P = .04). Sixteen women (42%) in the PAG utilized the resources provided (prenatal yoga being utilized most). Postintervention, there was a significant group × time interaction for Perceived Self-Efficacy scores; scores in the PAG remained consistent with baseline values, whereas scores in the control group decreased (P = .03). The intervention reduced sedentary time and maintained self-efficacy scores during pregnancy.

Effects of the iPad and mobile application-integrated physical education on children’s physical activity and psychosocial beliefs

ABSTRACT Background: Quality physical education (PE) lessons tap on the four focal areas: curriculum, instruction, policies and environment (National Association for Sport and Physical Education 2013. Quality Physical Education NASPE Resource Brief. Reston, VA: American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance). One of the approaches to enhance the quality of PE is to use digital technologies, such as the iPad and mobile applications (apps), in the classes to facilitate teachers’ instruction and students’ learning process. Although literature discussing strategies and different types of apps employed in PE classes is available, studies investigating their effectiveness on students’ physical activity (PA) level and their PA-related beliefs are scarce. The national guidelines state that students meet the recommended moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) levels in PE, as children are not sufficiently active in PE classes. Recently, more PE teachers are integrating apps in their classes and, therefore, it is essential to examine whether app-integrated PE is effective in promoting children’s PA and PA-related psychosocial beliefs such as enjoyment and self-efficacy. Purpose: The study examined the short-term (two-week) effects of mobile app-integrated PE classes on children’s PA and their psychosocial beliefs. Methods: A total of 157 fourth and fifth grade children from two elementary schools in the Midwestern U.S. participated in this study in 2016. Four PE classes from one school (n = 77) served as the app-integrated group, while three classes from the comparison school (n = 80) participated as the traditional PE group. Three PE sessions were measured for both schools at baseline and post-test to examine children’s differences in PA levels and psychosocial beliefs. In the app-integrated lessons, teachers used the iPad and mobile apps to instruct during the post-test sessions. Children’s percentages of time spent in sedentary behavior, light PA, and MVPA during PE classes were measured via ActiGraph GTX3+ accelerometers. A battery of validated questionnaires were used to assess the children’s PA-related psychosocial beliefs (i.e. self-efficacy, outcome expectancy, social support, and enjoyment) in PE. Results: The changes in children’s PA were significantly different between the app-integrated and comparison groups in sedentary behavior (F (1,154) = 110.6, p < 0.001, η 2 = 0.42), light PA (F (1,154) = 97.7, p < 0.01, η 2 = 0.39), and MVPA (F (1,154) = 31.4, p < .01, η 2 = 0.17). Children in both groups demonstrated a decrease in their MVPA; however, the decrease in the app-integrated group was significantly greater than that of the comparison group (−1.6%). There were no significant differences in changes of all beliefs between the two groups. Conclusions: The short-term (two-week) app-integrated PE classes was ineffective in reducing children’s sedentary behavior and improving light PA, MVPA, and PA-related beliefs. Teachers are recommended to align the use of iPad and apps with the PE learning goals: selection of apps and pedagogy of app use need to be carefully thought out to prevent compromising children’s PA for the sake of efficient management or emphasis on other learning domains.