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Randomized Controlled Trial
. 2010 Jul;7(4):A82.
Epub 2010 Jun 15.

Putting physical activity where it fits in the school day: preliminary results of the ABC (Activity Bursts in the Classroom) for fitness program

David L Katz  1 , Daniel Cushman, Jesse Reynolds, Valentine Njike, Judith A Treu, Jennifer Walker, Erica Smith, Catherine Katz
Affiliations
Randomized Controlled Trial

Putting physical activity where it fits in the school day: preliminary results of the ABC (Activity Bursts in the Classroom) for fitness program

David L Katz et al. Prev Chronic Dis. 2010 Jul.

Abstract

Introduction: Despite well-documented evidence that physical activity is beneficial to children, average fitness levels of US children have declined. Lack of physical activity has been associated with childhood obesity. We evaluated the effects of a physical activity program in the elementary school classroom on health outcomes.

Methods: Three schools in the Independence School District in Independence, Missouri, were assigned to receive the ABC (Activity Bursts in the Classroom) for Fitness program, and 2 comparable schools served as controls. The program, led by classroom teachers, provides multiple, brief, structured physical activity breaks throughout the day. Baseline data for the study were collected in September 2007, and follow-up data were collected in April 2008.

Results: Physical fitness measures of upper-body strength, abdominal strength, and trunk extensor improved (P <.001). Medication use for asthma (P = .03), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (P = .07), or either medication combined (P = .005) decreased.

Conclusion: The effects of the program on daily physical activity, fitness, and measures of health are beneficial.

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Figures

The figure consists of a flow chart. A box labeled “13 Elementary Schools: Independence School District” is at the top of the chart. Below it is a circle, “Intervention schools (n =3_, 655 Students Enrolled in the Study). Divided by a line, another circle to the right of it is labeled “Control Schools (N = 2), 559 Students Enrolled in the Study. Note: additional boxes to be described.
Figure.
Study flow chart, ABC (Activity Bursts in the Classroom) for Fitness Program.MAP indicates Missouri Academic Performance test.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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