Can break times (recess) help children’s physical activity levels Can break times (recess) help children’s physical activity levels? Dr Kristy Howells

Introduction Break times = unstructured opportunities for physical activity. (Johns and Ha, 1999). Girls and boys have same opportunities (Sarkin et al., 1997) Contributes 4 – 40% of recommended daily PA (Ridgers et al., 2006)

The Children Volunteered 10 girls, 10 boys. School set in SE England, rural Church of England school. Class teachers were PE specialist. Break times include: 20 min morning break, 60 mins lunch break and 15 mins afternoon break (only for infants)

Data Collection 60 second cycle time sampling interval ActiGraph accelerometers Measure activity volume – frequency, intensity and duration. (METs) (McClain and Tudor-Locke, 2009) Worn in a pouch around the waist (Welk, 2002) – preferred site. 60 second cycle time sampling interval

Morning break times (20 mins)

Lunch time (60 mins)

Afternoon break time (15 mins)

So what?! Overall 28 or 29 mins a day Approx 48% of MVPA recommendation levels achievable in break times alone. Less differences in gender than expected. Children are effectively utilising their break times to help their overall physical activity levels

Playground enhancement

Questions Are there any questions?