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11 pages, 691 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of an Intervention to Enhance First Aid Knowledge among Early Childhood Education Students: A Pilot Study

by Patxi León-Guereño, Laura Cid-Aldama, Héctor Galindo-Domínguez and Alaitz Amezua-Urrutia

Children 2023, 10(7), 1252; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10071252 - 21 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4067

Empowering early childhood education students from the beginning with the necessary knowledge and skills to act swiftly in emergency situations could be crucial in saving lives in certain cases. In order to improve the first aid knowledge and skills of early childhood education [...] Read more.

Empowering early childhood education students from the beginning with the necessary knowledge and skills to act swiftly in emergency situations could be crucial in saving lives in certain cases. In order to improve the first aid knowledge and skills of early childhood education students, a pre/post study was conducted with a two-week intermediate intervention involving 13 early childhood education students. Their knowledge and skills in first aid were assessed using an ad-hoc instrument before and after the intervention. The results demonstrate a statistically significant improvement in all items related to first aid general knowledge, first aid kits, and CPR maneuvers, as well as in the overall scale. These findings provide evidence that early childhood education students can be equipped through low-cost interventions to acquire and apply certain essential first aid skills, such as dialing emergency services, understanding the purpose of first aid kit items, and recognizing vital signs in individuals, that may be crucial in saving lives in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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11 pages, 327 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Self-Perceived Physical Fitness of Physical Education Students in Public Schools in Extremadura (Spain)

by Carmen Galán-Arroyo, David Manuel Mendoza-Muñoz, Jorge Pérez-Gómez, Claudio Hernández-Mosqueira and Jorge Rojo-Ramos

Children 2023, 10(3), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10030604 - 22 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2211

Abstract

Adolescence is a stage of crucial physiological and psychological changes within the individual’s life cycle, where fitness work is important. With self-perception being crucial in relation to adolescent health and well-being, a positive perception of fitness is directly related to increased practice or [...] Read more.

Adolescence is a stage of crucial physiological and psychological changes within the individual’s life cycle, where fitness work is important. With self-perception being crucial in relation to adolescent health and well-being, a positive perception of fitness is directly related to increased practice or higher level of physical activity (PA). Thus, the aims were: (1) to analyze, with the Visual Analogue Fitness Perception Scale for Adolescents (FP VAS A), the self-perceived physical fitness (PF) of high school students, (2) to investigate if there are differences according to sex and school location, and (3) to study the correlations between the items of the FP VAS A with age and body mass index (BMI). For this purpose, a cross-sectional study was designed with a total of 961 participants, 48.8% boys and 51.2% girls in secondary education, where 31.9% studied in rural schools and 68.1% in urban schools. The FP VAS A scale was used to assess self-reported PF. Regarding the results, there were statistically significant differences between sexes (p < 0.001), with boys showing higher scores than girls in all the items of the FP VAS A scale, with the exception of global flexibility. Inverse, mean and significant correlations were established between BMI and self-perceived overall PF (r = −0.202; p < 0.001), cardiorespiratory endurance (r = −0.226; p < 0.001) and movement speed (r = −0.268; p < 0.001). Between age and self-perceived cardiorespiratory endurance (r = −0.138; p < 0.001) an inverse, mean and significant correlation was also observed. In conclusion, boys showed a better self-perception of PF than girls for all physical abilities, with the exception of flexibility. School location was not shown to influence students’ self-perceived PF. In addition, most of the self-perceived PF abilities for overall fitness correlated inversely with BMI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

16 pages, 851 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Effects of Socioeconomic Environment on Physical Activity Levels and Sleep Quality in Basque Schoolchildren

by Arkaitz Larrinaga-Undabarrena, Xabier Río, Iker Sáez, Aitor Martinez Aguirre-Betolaza, Neritzel Albisua, Gorka Martínez de Lahidalga Aguirre, José Ramón Sánchez Isla, Mikel Urbano, Myriam Guerra-Balic, Juan Ramón Fernández and Aitor Coca

Children 2023, 10(3), 551; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10030551 - 15 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3995

Abstract

The socioeconomic and built environment of an area are interrelated with health data and have a direct influence on children’s development. There are facilitators and barriers for schools to promote physical activity depending on the socioeconomic status of the school. The aim of [...] Read more.

The socioeconomic and built environment of an area are interrelated with health data and have a direct influence on children’s development. There are facilitators and barriers for schools to promote physical activity depending on the socioeconomic status of the school. The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between physical activity and sleep and the socioeconomic level of children in the Basque Country. The sample consisted of 1139 schoolchildren between the ages of six and seventeen (566 boys and 573 girls) from 75 schools (43 public and 32 private). Differences between groups were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test (two samples), Kruskal–Wallis one-factor ANOVA (k samples), and Spearman’s Rho correlation. There are sex differences in light (200.8 ± 62.5 vs. 215.9 ± 54.7) and moderate (69.0 ± 34.3 vs. 79.9 ± 32.1) physical activity in favour of the female group of higher socioeconomic status compared to male group of higher socioeconomic status. In the case of vigorous physical activity, the female group performed less than the male group across all socioeconomic statuses, which was statistically significant in the groups of high socioeconomic status (11.6 ± 9.3 vs. 6.9 ± 5.7) in group 2 and medium socioeconomic status (11.1 ± 9.3 vs. 7.7 ± 6.1) in group 3. There is an inverse relationship between sedentary behaviour and BMI, total bed time, total sleep time, and night-time awakenings. There is also an inverse relationship between all levels of physical activity performed with respect to BMI and total sleep efficiency. These data point towards notable inequalities in physical activity and daily sleep in Basque schoolchildren, which in turn may be marginalised in our current school system due to the effects of the socioeconomic environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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13 pages, 989 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intervention Programme Based on Self-Determination Theory to Promote Extracurricular Physical Activity through Physical Education in Primary School: A Study Protocol

by Rubén Llanos-Muñoz, Mikel Vaquero-Solís, Miguel Ángel López-Gajardo, Pedro Antonio Sánchez-Miguel, Miguel Ángel Tapia-Serrano and Francisco Miguel Leo

Children 2023, 10(3), 504; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10030504 - 03 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2051

Abstract

Low levels of physical activity (PA) are a concern among students, producing negative physical, health and mental consequences. This study aims to present a protocol intervention in physical education (PE) based on self-determination theory (SDT) to enhance students’ motivation towards performing PA and [...] Read more.

Low levels of physical activity (PA) are a concern among students, producing negative physical, health and mental consequences. This study aims to present a protocol intervention in physical education (PE) based on self-determination theory (SDT) to enhance students’ motivation towards performing PA and increasing their PA levels in their leisure time. This protocol is a convenience study with two allocation arms (intervention group versus control group). SDT-based motivational strategies will be carried out and co-created with PE teachers to increase motivation and out-of-school PA levels. Data collection will be conducted three times: before the intervention, after the intervention (four months after baseline) and at the end of the intervention (retention measurement, seven months after baseline). The measures will assess perceived teacher support for PA, motivation towards PA, intention to be physically active, PA levels, engagement in PE and academic performance. Overall, this intervention programme is expected to increase students’ autonomous motivation for PA and their PA levels in their free time. This intervention might encourage teachers to establish strategies and resources to increase their students’ adaptive outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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10 pages, 415 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of a Diabetes Sports Summer Camp on the Levels of Physical Activity and Dimensions of Health-Related Quality of Life in Young Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 1: A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Lida Skoufa, Eleni Makri, Vassilis Barkoukis, Maria Papagianni, Panagiota Triantafyllou and Evangelia Kouidi

Children 2023, 10(3), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10030456 - 26 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1092

Abstract

Physical activity (PA) is considered an important part of the treatment of children with diabetes mellitus type 1 (T1DM). Furthermore, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) affects both the physical and mental health of patients with T1DM. The purpose of the study was to [...] Read more.

Physical activity (PA) is considered an important part of the treatment of children with diabetes mellitus type 1 (T1DM). Furthermore, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) affects both the physical and mental health of patients with T1DM. The purpose of the study was to evaluate through a randomized controlled trial the impact of participation in a summer diabetes sports camp on the PA and HRQoL of children and adolescents with T1DM. Eighty-four children and adolescents with T1DM were randomly assigned into an intervention (M = 12.64, SD = 1.82, 30 female) and a control group (M = 12.67, SD = 2.50, 30 female). Intervention group participants attended a ten-day summer diabetes sports camp which included an intensive program of PA (6 h of daily PA), educational and entertaining activities as well as education on the importance of PA in the management of the disease. At baseline and at the end of the study, participants completed measures of physical activity, self-esteem, depression, health status, intention to change behavior, and life satisfaction. Results of the two-way repeated measures analysis showed no statistically significant group differences in PA levels (p < 0.05) and HRQoL parameters (p < 0.05 for all parameters). In conclusion, the results did not support the effectiveness of a 10-day diabetes sports camp on PA levels and HRQoL for children with T1DM. Longer interventions may be more effective in exerting positive influence on trait parameters of children with T1DM’s quality of life. Participation in such programs on multiple occasions should be evaluated in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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14 pages, 1078 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Peer Support and Exercise Adherence in Adolescents: The Chain-Mediated Effects of Self-Efficacy and Self-Regulation

by Yuxin Zou, Shijie Liu, Shuangshuang Guo, Qiuhao Zhao and Yujun Cai

Children 2023, 10(2), 401; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10020401 - 18 Feb 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2606

Abstract

In the context of exercise psychology, the mediating relationship between peer support, self-efficacy and self-regulation, and adolescents’ exercise adherence was to be explored. Methods: A questionnaire was distributed among 2200 teenagers from twelve middle schools in Shanghai. The “process” program in SPSS and [...] Read more.

In the context of exercise psychology, the mediating relationship between peer support, self-efficacy and self-regulation, and adolescents’ exercise adherence was to be explored. Methods: A questionnaire was distributed among 2200 teenagers from twelve middle schools in Shanghai. The “process” program in SPSS and the bootstrap method were applied to construct and analyze the direct and indirect effects of peer support on adolescents’ exercise adherence. Results: Peer support directly affected adolescents’ exercise adherence (β = 0.135, p < 0.001, effect size of 59%) and self-efficacy (β = 0.493, p < 0.001, effect size accounted for 42%), and self-regulation (β = −0.184, p < 0.001, effect size of 11%) influenced exercise adherence indirectly. In addition, self-efficacy and self-regulation could impose a chain-mediated effect on peer support and exercise adherence (effect size of 6%). Conclusion: Peer support could promote adolescents’ exercise adherence. Self-efficacy and self-regulation are mediating factors of peer support on exercise adherence in teenagers, self-regulation as well as self-efficacy-imposed chain-mediating effects on peer support and adolescents’ exercise adherence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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11 pages, 788 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Estimated Body Composition and Physical Fitness of Adolescent Boys after One Year of Soccer Training

by Cíntia França, Diogo V. Martinho, Élvio Rúbio Gouveia, Francisco Martins, Adilson Marques, Tiago Ribeiro, Marcelo de Maio Nascimento, Helder Lopes, Ana Rodrigues and Andreas Ihle

Children 2023, 10(2), 391; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10020391 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1522

Abstract

Sports participation is one of the most popular forms of physical activity among youngsters. This study aimed to examine the changes in the estimated body composition, strength, and flexibility of adolescent boys after 12 months of soccer training compared with those of age-matched [...] Read more.

Sports participation is one of the most popular forms of physical activity among youngsters. This study aimed to examine the changes in the estimated body composition, strength, and flexibility of adolescent boys after 12 months of soccer training compared with those of age-matched controls with non-sports participation. We assessed 137 boys (62 soccer players and 75 controls) at baseline (TM1) and 12 months later (TM2). The differences in estimated body composition, strength, and flexibility were investigated using a repeated measure analysis of variance. The analysis revealed a significant main effect of soccer training on fat mass (F = 73.503, p ≤ 0.01, η2 = 0.59) and fat-free mass (F = 39.123, p ≤ 0.01, η2 = 0.48). Over time, the soccer group decreased their fat mass and increased their fat-free mass, while the opposite results were observed for the controls. Among physical fitness tests, a substantial effect of soccer training was evidenced for the sit-up performance (F = 16.224, p ≤ 0.01, η2 = 0.32). Regarding the time factor, significant effects were noted for height and handgrip strength. No significant differences were detected for flexibility. Overall, the benefits of soccer training were exhibited by the larger improvements in fat mass, fat-free mass, sit-ups, and handgrip strength performance, underlining the important role of soccer participation during adolescence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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15 pages, 1466 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Changes in Perceived Enjoyment throughout a 12-Week School-Based Exergaming Intervention

by Lisa Röglin, Oliver Stoll, Kerstin Ketelhut, Anna Lisa Martin-Niedecken and Sascha Ketelhut

Children 2023, 10(1), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10010144 - 11 Jan 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1679

Abstract

This study assessed whether a high-intensity exergame represents an enjoyable training tool for children in the elementary school setting. Furthermore, it evaluated whether gender, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), fitness level, weekly physical activity level, and general interest in sports moderate [...] Read more.

This study assessed whether a high-intensity exergame represents an enjoyable training tool for children in the elementary school setting. Furthermore, it evaluated whether gender, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), fitness level, weekly physical activity level, and general interest in sports moderate perceived enjoyment during the 12-week intervention. Thirty fifth- and sixth-grade students (10.5 ± 0.7 years; 50% girls) participated in this study. During baseline assessments, anthropometric measurements and a shuttle run test were conducted. Throughout the intervention period, the students participated in 15–20-min exergaming sessions (ES) in the ExerCube twice a week during school hours. Enjoyment was assessed after an ES in weeks 2 and 12. Additionally, enjoyment was evaluated after a physical education (PE) class in week 2. The results reveal no significant changes in enjoyment (p = 0.164) over time. The modest changes over time were significantly affected by BMI (p = 0.027), WHtR (p = 0.007), and weekly activity level (p = 0.016). Compared to the PE class, enjoyment was significantly higher during the ES (p < 0.001). None of the covariates showed a significant effect. Mean HR during the ES reached 87.1 ± 1.9% of students’ individual maximum HR. In conclusion, the ExerCube provides a promising tool for schools to promote enjoyable moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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14 pages, 741 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Relationship between Physical Fitness and Perceived Well-Being, Motivation, and Enjoyment in Chinese Adolescents during Physical Education: A Preliminary Cross-Sectional Study

by Wei Zheng, Hejun Shen, Mohammed B. Belhaidas, Yaping Zhao, Lei Wang and Jin Yan

Children 2023, 10(1), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10010111 - 05 Jan 2023

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4239

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between physical fitness (PF) level and Chinese middle-school students’ perceived well-being, motivation, and enjoyment. Method: In this study, the participants were randomly selected from 16 Beijing-based middle schools in China. In addition [...] Read more.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between physical fitness (PF) level and Chinese middle-school students’ perceived well-being, motivation, and enjoyment. Method: In this study, the participants were randomly selected from 16 Beijing-based middle schools in China. In addition to the collection of demographic data (i.e., gender, age, and parental education), tools including the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale, the Behavioural Regulation in Sport Questionnaire, and the Physical Activity Children’s Enjoyment Scale were employed for collecting data on other variables of well-being, motivation, and enjoyment, respectively. Results: A total of 1678 adolescents (M age = 14.66 years, SD = 1.80) participated in this study. According to the results, significant gender differences could be observed in the PF categories of mean age, BMI, vital capacity, 50-m sprint, muscular strength, and flexibility (all p < 0.05). In contrast, there was no significant gender difference in the levels of well-being, motivation, and enjoyment observed, with similar scores for boys and girls (p > 0.05). Indeed, adolescents with low BMI scores and high levels of vital capacity, muscular strength, and flexibility showed better well-being, motivation, and enjoyment. However, no association was observed between timed sit-ups and pull-ups and well-being, motivation, and enjoyment. Conclusions: This study produced preliminary findings on the relationship between PF and Chinese adolescents’ perceived well-being, motivation, and enjoyment. To improve the health of adolescents, it is necessary to adopt prospective and experimental research designs for advocating for fitness education in school-based programs in future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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12 pages, 4119 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Time Duration of Post-Activation Performance Enhancement (PAPE) in Elite Male Sprinters with Different Strength Levels

by Wenxia Guo, Meifu Liang, Junlei Lin, Ruihang Zhou, Ningning Zhao, Felipe J. Aidar, Rafael Oliveira and Georgian Badicu

Children 2023, 10(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10010053 - 26 Dec 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1726

Abstract

(1) Purpose: This study aimed to explore the time duration of post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) in elite male sprinters with different strength levels. (2) Methods: Thirteen elite male sprinters were divided into a strong group (relative strength: 1RM squat normalized by body mass [...] Read more.

(1) Purpose: This study aimed to explore the time duration of post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) in elite male sprinters with different strength levels. (2) Methods: Thirteen elite male sprinters were divided into a strong group (relative strength: 1RM squat normalized by body mass of ≥2.5; n = 6) and a weak group (relative strength of <2.5; n = 7). All sprinters performed one static squat jump (SSJ) at baseline and 15 s, 3 min, 6 min, 9 min, and 12 min following an exercise protocol including three reps of a 90% 1RM back squat. Two force plates were used to determine the vertical jump height, the impulse output, and the power output for all SSJs. (3) Results: Significant improvements in vertical jump height and peak impulse were observed (p < 0.05) at 3, 6, and 9 min, without significant between-group differences. The peak power had a significant increase in 3 min (p < 0.01) and 6 min (p < 0.05), with also no significant difference between-group differences. Moreover, the stronger subjects induced a greater PAPE effect than the weaker counterparts at 3, 6, and 9 min after the intervention. The maximal benefit following the intervention occurred at 6 min and 3 min after the intervention in the stronger and weaker subjects, respectively. (4) Conclusions: The findings indicated that three reps of a 90% 1RM back squat augmented the subsequent explosive movement (SSJ) for 3–9 min in elite male sprinters, especially in stronger sprinters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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10 pages, 1322 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Physical Well-Being of Children and Adolescents during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: Findings from the “Come te la Passi?” Cross Sectional Survey in Bologna, Italy

by Aurelia Salussolia, Jacopo Lenzi, Marco Montalti, Flavia Rallo, Martina Paternò, Marta Agosta, Davide Resi, Michela Stillo, Federica Guaraldi, Davide Gori, Laura Dallolio and Alice Masini

Children 2022, 9(12), 1950; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9121950 - 12 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2328

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 had a strong impact on the physical and general well-being of the youngest. In Italy, citizens were forced to change their habits, especially during the national lockdown, causing increased levels of sedentary and unhealthy behaviors. “Come te la passi? [...] Read more.

Background: The COVID-19 had a strong impact on the physical and general well-being of the youngest. In Italy, citizens were forced to change their habits, especially during the national lockdown, causing increased levels of sedentary and unhealthy behaviors. “Come te la passi?” was a cross-sectional study aimed at investigating changes in the physical activity levels (PA) and well-being of children and adolescents in the City of Bologna. Methods: An anonymous survey was administered to parents/guardians of children and adolescents aged 6–18 years. Results: 1134 questionnaires were collected during June 2021; 457 (40.3%) were females, and the mean age was 13.0 ± 3.4 years. Regarding the general well-being perception, 61.3% of the participants reported concerns about the future, 46.3% reported sleep difficulties, and 72.8% reported experiencing attention difficulty, with higher percentages among adolescents. Considering the PA frequency, an overall reduction was found, with the percentage of those who rarely did PA and those who frequently did PA both increasing. No gender differences were found. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the current pandemic has strongly impacted the well-being of children and adolescents. It appears to have primarily affected adolescents, with a significant reduction in PA levels, even after the end of the national lockdown. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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12 pages, 308 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gamification as a Pedagogical Model to Increase Motivation and Decrease Disruptive Behaviour in Physical Education

by Marta Soriano-Pascual, Alberto Ferriz-Valero, Salvador García-Martínez and Salvador Baena-Morales

Children 2022, 9(12), 1931; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9121931 - 08 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1918

Abstract

The application of gamified learning in physical education is becoming increasingly popular. The aim of this work was to compare the effects of gamification versus traditional methodology to check whether there were differences in the attitudes of the students. A quasi-experimental design study [...] Read more.

The application of gamified learning in physical education is becoming increasingly popular. The aim of this work was to compare the effects of gamification versus traditional methodology to check whether there were differences in the attitudes of the students. A quasi-experimental design study was carried out. The sample consisted of 66 students in Secondary Education. Three questionnaires, POSQ (Perception of Success), BPN (Basic Psychological Needs) and CCDEF (Disruptive Behaviour in Physical Education), were used in both groups before and after carrying out each proposal. Firstly, an independent samples Student’s t-test was performed. The results showed significant final differences in all variables except two: competence (p = 0.068) and aggressiveness (p = 0.136). Secondly, a paired samples t-test was performed. In this case, the control group showed a significant decrease in the variables task orientation (p = 0.004) and autonomy (p < 0.001). According to the experimental group, all variables showed significant differences (p < 0.05), except for two, competence (p = 0.223) and aggressiveness (p = 0.056). Therefore, it was concluded that, with the gamified learning, the students expressed higher levels of task orientation, all BPNs and lower levels of disruptive behaviours than the students who were subjected to the traditional methodology. This kind of intervention can help to improve the quality of education as set out in the SDGs through Quality Education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

12 pages, 1074 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Different Pedagogical Models on Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity in Physical Education Classes

by Élvio Rúbio Gouveia, Jorge Lizandra, Diogo V. Martinho, Cíntia França, Andreas Ihle, Hugo Sarmento, Hélio Antunes, Ana Luísa Correia, Helder Lopes and Adilson Marques

Children 2022, 9(12), 1790; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9121790 - 22 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1620

Abstract

The aims of this study were twofold: (i) to examine differences in physical activity (PA) variables regarding the length of Physical Education (PE) lessons (45 vs. 90 min) and teaching methodology (Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU) or hybrid TGfU-sports education (SE)); and (ii) [...] Read more.

The aims of this study were twofold: (i) to examine differences in physical activity (PA) variables regarding the length of Physical Education (PE) lessons (45 vs. 90 min) and teaching methodology (Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU) or hybrid TGfU-sports education (SE)); and (ii) to estimate the percentage of time spent in moderate-to-vigorous (MV) PA assessed via an accelerometer based on total step count, BMI, age, and sex, considering the pedagogical models and the class length. This study was carried out in three classes of invasion games in PE. Two classes were taught based on TGfU (44 students, 18 males, 12.6 ± 0.55), and one was taught based on a hybrid TGfU-SE (17 students, 9 males, 13.7 ± 0.90). The same students were assessed twice, first in a 45 min class and then in a 90 min class. The students’ MVPA was assessed using the Actigraph GT3X Activity Monitor. The results revealed significant differences in PA intensity regarding the length of the PE lesson (45 vs. 90 min) and the teaching methodology. The 45 min classes using TGfU were more intense and had less sedentary time than the 90 min classes. When using a hybrid TGfU-SE, the 90 min classes had higher intensities than the 45 min classes. Generally, when comparing the two types of pedagogical intervention, the TGfU model provided more active lessons and less sedentary time in class than a hybrid TGfU-SE. The TGfU model is more profitable for increasing MVPA in class. Due to the issues related to the organization and management of sports practice in class, several recommendations for maximizing MVPA in a hybrid TGfU-SE class must be considered. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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10 pages, 673 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Mediating Role of Motivational Regulation on the Relationship of Emotional Intelligence with Physical Activity in Spanish Schoolchildren

by Mikel Vaquero-Solís, Miguel Angel Tapia-Serrano and Pedro Antonio Sánchez-Miguel

Children 2022, 9(11), 1656; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9111656 - 29 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1119

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze the mediating role of different types of motivational regulations in the relationship established between emotional intelligence and physical activity. Participants were 431 secondary school students aged 12 to 16 years, 51.5% females (13.59 ± 1.03 years) and [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to analyze the mediating role of different types of motivational regulations in the relationship established between emotional intelligence and physical activity. Participants were 431 secondary school students aged 12 to 16 years, 51.5% females (13.59 ± 1.03 years) and 48.5% males (13.50 ± 0.94 years), who completed a self-reported questionnaire of emotional intelligence, motivation and physical activity. The results showed a statistically significant positive association between emotional intelligence, physical activity, and more self-determined forms of motivation (intrinsic regulation, identified regulation and introjected regulation) (p < 0.05). Several mediation models were also presented that confirmed the mediating value of the more self-determined motivational regulations in the association established between emotional intelligence and physical activity, with the indirect effects being significant for intrinsic regulation, identified regulation, and introjected regulation (p < 0.05). Finally, we conclude on the importance of the management of emotions in order to propitiate a suitable motivational state that leads to physical activity. Therefore, this study highlights the importance of emotional intelligence for the practice of different forms of physical activity in young people. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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11 pages, 668 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Predictive Role of Perceived Autonomy Support in Elementary School Children Physical Activity

by Mikel Vaquero-Solís, Miguel Ángel Tapia-Serrano, Pedro Antonio Sánchez-Miguel, Rubén Llanos-Muñoz and Miguel Angel López-Gajardo

Children 2022, 9(10), 1592; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9101592 - 21 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1384

Abstract

The present article aimed to test a predictive model based on children’s perception of autonomy support exercised by their physical education teachers in establishing a state of high motivational quality, which in turn leads to greater intention and physical activity. Participants were 502 [...] Read more.

The present article aimed to test a predictive model based on children’s perception of autonomy support exercised by their physical education teachers in establishing a state of high motivational quality, which in turn leads to greater intention and physical activity. Participants were 502 elementary school students aged 9 to 11 years (52.59% males (9.47 ± 0.53 years old) and 47.41% females (9.54 ± 0.53 years old)), who completed a self-reported questionnaire of perceived autonomy support from physical education teachers, self-determination, intention to be physically active, and physical activity. Results showed that perceived autonomy support was positively related to autonomous motivation, which in turn was associated with intention and physical activity. In addition, the model did not present variations with respect to gender and confirmed the indirect effects of autonomous motivation on intention and practice of physical activity. Finally, we conclude on the importance of an adequate perception of autonomy support in students by their teachers for the establishment of an appropriate motivational state that could promote greater intention and physical activity. Thus, the motivational state acquired in physical education classes can be translated into intention and practice of physical activity in different contexts of students’ daily lives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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10 pages, 456 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Listening to Music and Playing Activities during Recreation between Lessons Regenerate Children’s Cognitive Performance at Different Times of Day

by Nourhen Mezghani, Achraf Ammar, Turki Mohsen Alzahrani, Atyh Hadadi, Salma Abedelmalek, Omar Trabelsi, Sabeh ben Abdallah, Cyrine H’mida, Omar Boukhris, Liwa Masmoudi, Khaled Trabelsi and Hamdi Chtourou

Children 2022, 9(10), 1587; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9101587 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2076

Abstract

The interruption of learning processes by breaks filled with diverse activities is common in everyday life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the time of day (TOD) of playing with or without music during recess on cognitive performance [...] Read more.

The interruption of learning processes by breaks filled with diverse activities is common in everyday life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the time of day (TOD) of playing with or without music during recess on cognitive performance regeneration among students aged between 11 and 12. Twenty-seven volunteer children (aged 12 ± 0.6 years) completed four trials at 09h45, 10h15, 14h45, and 15h15. Each test session was separated by recreation between classroom lessons with different conditions: music only (MSC), playing only (PAY), music and playing (MSC-PAY), and without music and playing (NON). During each session, oral temperature, reaction time (RT), and constant attention (CA) were measured. For all parameters, the ANOVA revealed a significant effect of the type of activity. However, no significant effect of the TOD and no significant interaction of type of activity × TOD were reported. The Bonferroni post hoc test revealed that Δ-core temperature was significantly higher during PAY and MSC-PAY compared to NON (p < 0.05). Δ-attention was higher during MSC, PAY, and MSC-PAY compared to NON (p < 0.001). Δ-attention was lower during MSC (p < 0.05), PAY (p < 0.05), and MSC-PAY (p < 0.01) compared to NON. Therefore, playing, listening to music, and playing while listening to music at recess improve the child’s ability to regenerate cognitive performance regardless of the TOD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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7 pages, 431 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Excessive Screen Time on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Children: A Longitudinal Study

by Ryo Goto, Tsunenori Isa, Rika Kawaharada, Kana Horibe, Yamato Tsuboi, Kiyomasa Nakatsuka, Kazuaki Uchida, Kenta Saeki and Rei Ono

Children 2022, 9(10), 1422; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9101422 - 20 Sep 2022

Viewed by 1961

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the effect of different components of screen time (mobile phone use, TV/video viewing, and video gaming) on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) development in children aged 9–12 years. Methods: This was a two-year longitudinal study conducted with 175 children (49.7% girls, [...] Read more.

Background: This study investigated the effect of different components of screen time (mobile phone use, TV/video viewing, and video gaming) on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) development in children aged 9–12 years. Methods: This was a two-year longitudinal study conducted with 175 children (49.7% girls, mean age = 9.5) in Japan. CRF was assessed using a 20 m shuttle run test conducted at baseline and again at follow-up. Children were categorized as “Good” or “Poor” based on the change in CRF scores for each gender. Screen time was assessed using a self-reported questionnaire at baseline and termed as “high” if children reported ≥ 2 h/day. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed after adjusting for gender, physical activity, and time of data collection. Results: Children scoring “high” on mobile phone use had lower odds of being categorized as “Good” in CRF change (crude odds ratio (OR): 0.34; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.15–0.90 (adjusted OR: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.12–0.91)). There were no significant effects of TV/video viewing (crude OR: 1.54; 95% CI: 0.84–2.81) and video gaming (crude OR: 0.98; 95% CI: 0.48–1.97) on changes in CRF. Conclusions: Limiting excessive mobile phone usage might be important for ensuring healthy development of CRF in children. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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10 pages, 610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

by Dongjun Zhang, Junmin Yang, He Liu and Ruibao Cai

Children 2022, 9(9), 1411; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9091411 - 17 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1533

Abstract

Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption continues to increase among children, with adverse health effects, and China is no exception. Our study investigates the association between SSB consumption and cardiopulmonary fitness. We used stratified whole group sampling to investigate and test SSB consumption and cardiopulmonary [...] Read more.

Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption continues to increase among children, with adverse health effects, and China is no exception. Our study investigates the association between SSB consumption and cardiopulmonary fitness. We used stratified whole group sampling to investigate and test SSB consumption and cardiopulmonary fitness in 21,055 children aged 13–15 years in China. A chi-square test and one-way ANOVA were used to compare different categories of SSB consumption. General linear regression analysis and logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the relationship between different SSB consumption and cardiopulmonary fitness in Chinese children. Our research results show the proportions of Chinese children with SSB consumption ≤ 1 time/week, 2–4 times/week, and ≥5 times/week were 33.3%, 52.8%, and 13.9%, respectively. VO_2max in children consuming ≥ 5 times/week was lower than those consuming 2–4 times/week and ≤2 times/week of SSB by 0.15 and 0.301 mL·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹, with statistically significant differences (F-value 18.807, p < 0.001). After relevant confounders were adjusted, children in the SSB consumption ≥ 5 times/week group had a higher risk of developing poorer cardiopulmonary fitness than those in the SSB consumption ≤ 1 time/week group (OR: 1.336, 95% CI: 1.181, 1.511) (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the consumption of SSBs among children aged 13–15 in China is higher than the recommended intake by the World Health Organization, and boys are higher than girls. In addition, after adjusting for relevant confounders, the association between SSB consumption and an increased risk of poor cardiorespiratory fitness remained. The relationship between SSB consumption and cardiopulmonary fitness was higher in girls compared with boys. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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9 pages, 282 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship between Body Schema and Scholar Maturity: A Study from the National College of Banat in Timisoara, Romania

by Mariana Cristina Șunei, Simona Petracovschi, Eugen Bota, Bogdan Almajan-Guță and Adrian Nagel

Children 2022, 9(9), 1369; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9091369 - 09 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1178

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to analyze the role and importance of specific physical exercises in the development of the body schema in preparatory class pupils and its effect on the development of maturity. Methods: The experiment took place over a period [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study is to analyze the role and importance of specific physical exercises in the development of the body schema in preparatory class pupils and its effect on the development of maturity. Methods: The experiment took place over a period of 10 weeks in which two physical education lessons per week were scheduled; the lessons include specific themes for the development of the body schema and contain exercises to arouse pupils’ interest in sports and physical activities from this age. A number of 150 pupils aged between 5 years and 6 months and 7 years and 6 months participated in the experiment. The pupils were divided into two groups: the experimental group (76 pupils, 32 boys and 34 girls) and the control group (74 pupils, 31 boys and 33 girls). Next, the “Draw-a-Person” Test was applied at the beginning and end of the experiment. Results: The analysis of the results highlights the fact that after completing the intervention plan there is a significant improvement in the results of the experimental group on the Maturity Scale and implicitly on the three development scales: Head Scale, Body Schema Scale, and Clothing Scale. Among the three scales, the Body Schema Scale has the greatest influence on the Maturity Scale (r = 0.841). Conclusions: The preparatory class produces a connection between the kindergarten and the school; furthermore, the physical education lessons with an emphasis on the development of the body scheme contribute to the development of maturity and school preparation of the pupils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

12 pages, 654 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determinant Factors of Achievement Motivation in School Physical Education

by Juan M. García-Ceberino, Sebastián Feu, María G. Gamero and Sergio J. Ibáñez

Children 2022, 9(9), 1366; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9091366 - 08 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1808

Abstract

Today, it is important for physical education teachers to know students’ motivation profiles for learning. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze achievement motivation according to four variables: students’ sex, the taught sport modality, students’ experience and teaching methodology. Likewise, the effects of students’ [...] Read more.

Today, it is important for physical education teachers to know students’ motivation profiles for learning. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze achievement motivation according to four variables: students’ sex, the taught sport modality, students’ experience and teaching methodology. Likewise, the effects of students’ sex and experience on the methodologies applied were analyzed. A total of 108 primary education students (10.95 ± 0.48 years), 54 boys and 54 girls, from three state schools participated in the study. The students answered the Achievement Motivation in Physical Education test (Spanish version) after participating in soccer and basketball programs based on different methodologies. Each class-group received a different educational program (soccer or basketball). The differences between the categories of the variables analyzed were calculated for each dimension of the motivational test through the Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis H tests. The effects of students’ sex and experience on the teaching methodologies applied were analyzed using the univariate General Linear Model test. In soccer and basketball, boys perceived being more motor competent (U = 732.00; p < 0.05; r = 0.43) than girls. In addition, experienced students in both sports perceived being more motor competent (U = 695.50; p < 0.05; r = 0.27) than inexperienced students. In turn, they indicated feeling less failure anxiety and stress (U = 780.00; p < 0.05; r = 0.22). All of the students who played soccer reported more commitment (learning dedication) (U = 1051.50; p < 0.05; r = 0.20) and perceived motor competence (U = 972.00; p < 0.05; r = 0.24) than students who played basketball. Considering the effects of students’ sex and experience on the methodologies (perceived motor competence dimension), there were significant differences (F = 7.68; p < 0.05; ηp² = 0.07) in favor of experienced boys who played soccer and basketball using the Tactical Games Approach methodology. Soccer was practiced more in school and out of school. This made students feel greater commitment (learning dedication) and perceived motor competence towards this invasion sport in physical education. In addition, it was shown that teachers should take into account students’ sex and experience because they are two factors that influence the teaching of sports and achievement motivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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8 pages, 271 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Attitude of Portuguese Physical Education Teachers toward Physical Fitness

by Adilson Marques, Diogo Balsa, Marta Domingos, Rafael Cavalheiro, Tiago Carreira, Tiago Moreira, Tiago Ribeiro and Élvio R. Gouveia

Children 2022, 9(7), 1005; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9071005 - 04 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1321

Abstract

In this study, we aimed to examine how Portuguese physical education teachers perceive the development of physical fitness through fitness tests in schools. The participants were 764 Portuguese teachers teaching at middle-school and high-school levels. The Physical Education Teacher Attitudes Toward Fitness Tests [...] Read more.

In this study, we aimed to examine how Portuguese physical education teachers perceive the development of physical fitness through fitness tests in schools. The participants were 764 Portuguese teachers teaching at middle-school and high-school levels. The Physical Education Teacher Attitudes Toward Fitness Tests Scale (PETAFTS) was used to collect the data. The means and confidence intervals for each attitude subdomain and the overall attitude were computed. A one-way ANOVA was used to examine the group differences in three subdomains of the attitudes of teachers by different variables. The overall attitude of teachers toward fitness tests was slightly positive according to a 7-point Likert scale (5.52, 95% CI: 5.47, 5.58). The results suggested that female teachers found fitness tests more useful, but male teachers significantly enjoyed implementing them. The data collected also showed that younger teachers found the implementation of fitness tests significantly more enjoyable than older teachers. In conclusion, future research should prioritise specific intervention content considering gender and the age of teachers to reinforce the development of physical fitness through fitness tests in schools. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

12 pages, 479 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Out-of-School Sports Participation Is Positively Associated with Physical Literacy, but What about Physical Education? A Cross-Sectional Gender-Stratified Analysis during the COVID-19 Pandemic among High-School Adolescents

by Mirela Sunda, Barbara Gilic, Damir Sekulic, Radenko Matic, Patrik Drid, Dan Iulian Alexe, Gheorghe Gabriel Cucui and Gabriel Stanica Lupu

Children 2022, 9(5), 753; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9050753 - 20 May 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2780

Abstract

Physical literacy (PL) is one of the main concepts related to lifelong physical activity (PA) and physical fitness (PF), but there is a lack of information on factors that might be associated with PL in adolescents from southeastern Europe. This study aimed to [...] Read more.

Physical literacy (PL) is one of the main concepts related to lifelong physical activity (PA) and physical fitness (PF), but there is a lack of information on factors that might be associated with PL in adolescents from southeastern Europe. This study aimed to evaluate the associations between PF, participation and achievement in physical education (PE), out-of-school participation in sports, and PL in high school adolescents from Croatia. Participants were 298 high school students aged 14–18 years (191 females). Variables included school age, PE grade, sports participation, anthropometric indices, four PF tests, and PL (evidenced by CAPL-2-knowledge and understanding questionnaire (CAPL-2-KU) and PLAYself questionnaire). Gender-stratified analyses of differences were conducted using the t-test for independent samples or the Mann-Whitney test. Associations between variables were calculated with Pearson’s product moment correlation or Spearman’s rank order correlation. PF was positively correlated CAPL-2-KU in both genders. PE grade was significantly associated with PLAYself score (Pearson’s correlation = 0.36 and 0.38, p < 0.001 for boys and girls, respectively) but not with the CAPL-2-KU score. School age was not correlated with PL among boys, but there was a significant but negligible correlation between CAPL-2-KU and school age in girls (<2% of the common variance). Adolescents involved in sports had better PL and PF compared with adolescents not involved in sports. In conclusion, participation in out-of-school sports offers a good base for developing PL. Although this study took part over the COVID-19 pandemic period when the regular PE curriculum was significantly altered, the poor associations between school age and PL could lead to the assumption that the current PE curriculum does not allow for improvement of PL in later high school age, which warrants further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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12 pages, 674 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Online-Schooling during COVID-19 on Device-Measured 24-Hour Movement Behaviours among High School Students: A Compositional Data Analysis

by Petra Starbek, Kaja Kastelic and Nejc Šarabon

Children 2022, 9(5), 667; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9050667 - 05 May 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1993

Abstract

The COVID-19 measures have unfavourably affected the movement behaviours of youth. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of online-schooling during COVID-19 on device-measured sleep (SL), sedentary behaviour (SB), light physical activity (LPA), and moderate–vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among high [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 measures have unfavourably affected the movement behaviours of youth. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of online-schooling during COVID-19 on device-measured sleep (SL), sedentary behaviour (SB), light physical activity (LPA), and moderate–vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among high school students. A total of 51 students (26 female) from Slovenia wore an activity monitor activPAL4 during the weekdays of onsite-schooling and during the weekdays of online-schooling. Data on movement behaviours were analysed using compositional data analysis. During the onsite-schooling (and online-schooling), students spent on average 432 min/day (469 min/day) in SL, 731 (755) in SB, 253 (202) in LPA, and 25 (15) in MVPA. Repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance confirmed significantly more time was spent in SL (log ratio 0.29; 95% CI 0.20, 0.37)) and SB (log ratio 0.23; 95% CI 0.13, 0.32) and less time in MVPA (log ratio −0.44; 95% CI −0.66, −0.23) during the online-schooling weekdays. Students spent significantly more time in SB during leisure (log ratio 0.20; 95% CI 0.06, 0.35) as well as during lecture time (log ratio 0.45; 95% CI 0.32, 0.58). Our results indicate that online-schooling significantly contributed to the unfavourable changes in students’ movement behaviours during COVID-19. Future studies should focus on developing physical activity interventions suitable for the circumstances of the epidemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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10 pages, 531 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Self-Efficacy, Optimism, and Academic Performance as Psychoeducational Variables: Mediation Approach in Students

by Pablo Usán, Carlos Salavera and Alberto Quílez-Robres

Children 2022, 9(3), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9030420 - 15 Mar 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4107

Abstract

Background: During the various stages of education, adolescents undergo emotional and motivational experiences that can play key roles in their development. This study aims to analyse the relationship among academic self-efficacy, optimism, and academic performance. Methods: This study comprised 1852 adolescent (male, N [...] Read more.

Background: During the various stages of education, adolescents undergo emotional and motivational experiences that can play key roles in their development. This study aims to analyse the relationship among academic self-efficacy, optimism, and academic performance. Methods: This study comprised 1852 adolescent (male, N = 956, 51.61% and female, N = 896, 48.38%) aged 12–19 years (M = 14.77; SD = 1.80) from twelve secondary schools in Spain. The instruments used for the evaluation were the Academic Self-Efficacy Scale (ASES) and the Life Orientation Test—Revised (LOT-R); the students’ average marks were used to measure their academic performance. Results: The results of the study revealed significant correlations among self-efficacy, optimism and academic performance. Conclusions: These results emphasise the importance of academic self-efficacy as a mediating variable between the other two variables as well as its central role in the promotion of adaptive behaviours in the classroom, leading to adequate personal development, helping to prevent early school dropout and contributing to a more satisfactory academic experience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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18 pages, 742 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

by Alina Drozdowska, Gernot Jendrusch, Petra Platen, Thomas Lücke, Mathilde Kersting and Kathrin Sinningen

Children 2022, 9(11), 1651; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9111651 - 28 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1613

Abstract

This systematic review aims to evaluate previous findings on the dose-related effects of short- and long-term physical activities (PA) on executive functions (EF) using a new approach by considering the success of experimental manipulation. Eight electronic databases were searched between May 2021 and [...] Read more.

This systematic review aims to evaluate previous findings on the dose-related effects of short- and long-term physical activities (PA) on executive functions (EF) using a new approach by considering the success of experimental manipulation. Eight electronic databases were searched between May 2021 and September 2021. Randomized control trials among healthy children (6–12 years) were screened. Data extraction included the measurement of experimental manipulations and pre–post measurements of physical fitness. After identifying 1774 records, 17 studies were included (nine short-term PA and eight long-term PA). The overall results suggest that a single 20-min PA may be overwhelming for short-term EF in children up to 9 years of age but may be beneficial for children 9 years and older. A dose-related relationship between PA and EF could not be verified in long-term studies, which is possibly due to insufficient fitness gains and participation in the intervention. Short- and long-term endurance and coordination training could improve children’s executive functions, but so far, there is no specific evidence on the duration, frequency, and intensity of PA. Not quantity but quality of intervention seems to be important in this context. Further intervention studies are needed that control for the characteristics of the experimental manipulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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14 pages, 1503 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Effects of Strength Training on Body Fat in Children and Adolescents with Overweight and Obesity: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

by Luis Diego Méndez-Hernández, Esther Ramírez-Moreno, Rosario Barrera-Gálvez, María del Consuelo Cabrera-Morales, Josefina Reynoso-Vázquez, Olga Rocío Flores-Chávez, Lizbeth Morales-Castillejos, Nelly del Socorro Cruz-Cansino, Reyna Cristina Jiménez-Sánchez and José Arias-Rico

Children 2022, 9(7), 995; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9070995 - 01 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4793

Abstract

Childhood overweight and obesity represent a growing public health problem worldwide. Since the 1980s, the global prevalence of overweight and obesity in childhood and adolescence has increased by 47%. The promotion of exercise is an important intervention to reduce the physical damage of [...] Read more.

Childhood overweight and obesity represent a growing public health problem worldwide. Since the 1980s, the global prevalence of overweight and obesity in childhood and adolescence has increased by 47%. The promotion of exercise is an important intervention to reduce the physical damage of obesity. The meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the general guidelines for the reporting of systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA). The PubMed, SciELO, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar databases were searched from August to December 2021. The search yielded 722 titles published between 2000 and 2021. After screening the titles and abstracts, 64 duplicate articles were detected, and 27 articles were ultimately included in the systematic review, including 26 articles published in English and one published in Spanish. There was a statistically significant effect of the strength training interventions on the percentage of body fat, Test of 0 i = (p = 0.00, z = 6.92), Test of 0 = (p = 0.00, Q (9) = 42.63). The findings reveal that strength training has a positive impact on the treatment of body fat in children and adolescents with overweight and obesity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Education, Physical Activity, and Health Education in Children and Adolescents)

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