The effect of a classroomactivity break on physical activity levels andadiposity in primary school children

Aim: Despite recognition that regular physical activity is essential for good health, many children do not accumulate sufficient daily physical activity.The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a classroom-based activity break on accelerometer-determinedmoderate-to-vigorous intensityphysical activity (MVPA) and adiposity in primary school children.Methods: One hundred twenty children from seven primary schools in Northern Ireland participated in the study. In each school, one class of childrenwas randomly assigned to an intervention group and another class to a control group. Teachers of the intervention classes led a 5-min activitybreak three times per day for 12 weeks. Accelerometer-determined MVPA, height, weight and four skinfolds were measured at baseline and postintervention.Results: Compared with the control group, the intervention group significantly increased weekday MVPA (+9.5 min) from baseline to postintervention.There were no significant changes in BMI; however, an increase in sum-of-skinfolds of the intervention group was observed.Conclusions: Classroom-based activity breaks led by the teacher are successful in increasing children’s physical activity