Taking the ‘physical’ out of physical education

AbstractAustralian youth (5–17) are exhibiting the most alarming statistics surrounding poor physical activity (PA) levels and increasing correlating chronic disease trends (i.e. obesity). With schools well positioned to address such concerns, this study aimed to determine the type, frequency and intensity levels of PA being undertaken by children during their physical education (PE) classes (Queensland, Australia). A cross-sectional descriptive study design was adopted, using a mixed methods approach across 10 primary schools (grades 1–5), with the purpose of determining if in fact there are appropriate PA levels undertaken and implemented by PE teachers, for school-aged students. Observation of 30 students was used to assess PE class practice with Primary Outcome Variables collected from Student Activity, Lesson Context and Teacher Interaction. Further questionnaires were administered to students (n = 80), PE specialists (n = 10) and principals (n = 10). Whilst this study specifically addresses the impo...