Effects of a 3-year physical education intervention in Italian schools

INTRODUCTION: Although the importance of regular physical activity has been widely demonstrated, most children displayed an inadequate level of physical fitness. Schools constitute an ideal setting in which children’s physical activity, physical fitness, and health status can improve. However, intervention protocols and their effectiveness vary considerably. The purpose of our study was to investigate if attending structured physical education classes held by a specialized teacher (EXP) could improve physical fitness and overweight and obesity prevalence more than in traditional classes of equal duration held by an ordinary teacher (TRAD). METHODS: Anthropometric and fitness parameters were assessed in a convenience sample of 12519 1st grade schoolchildren over 3 subsequent schoolyears. In EXP classes (3542 girls and 3848 boys), specialized teachers were responsible for implementing a class-specific physical activity plan based on a standardized programme designed to promote motor skills, coordination, physical literacy, team spirit and compliance with the rules to achieve long-term modifications in behavioural patterns. In contrast, TRAD classes (2498 girls and 2631 boys) followed the standard physical education programme. RESULTS: Physical fitness improved more in the EXP group than in the TRAD group, except for flexibility (Sit & Reach). At the end of the 3rd year, the EXP children performed better than did the TRAD children (p