The Effect of Primary School-Based Physical Education Programs: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

in Journal of Physical Activity and Health

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Markel Rico-GonzálezDepartment of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Corporal Expression, University of the Basque Country, Leioa, Spain

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https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9849-0444*
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1123/jpah.2022-0452
Keywords:
curriculum; young; elementary education; teacher; exercise
First Published Online:
03 Mar 2023
In Print:
Volume 20: Issue 4
Page Range:
317–347
Restricted access

The present article aimed to systematically summarize primary school-based intervention programs and their effects evaluated through randomized-controlled trial design. A systematic review of relevant articles was carried out using 4 electronic databases. From a total of 193 studies initially found, 30 were included in the qualitative synthesis. Main results: (1) Intensive interval training or jump/strength exercises may positively influence physical fitness, promoting challenging task, psychological needs, and guided styles to a greater extent; (2) Games that demand more cognitive function seem more beneficial than those based on repetitive aerobic exertion to improve fundamental motor skills; (3) The jumping/strength exercises may cause benefits in bone area and bone mineral density, while flexibility and balance may reduce the risk of muscle injury; and (4) Programming a greater dose of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity seems to be related to positive effects in core executive function and academic performance. Additionally, providing information and involving the social environment may enhance the positive effects.

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