The Relationship Between Physical Activity and Content of the Physical Education Classes in 11-12 Years Old Lithuanian Schoolchildren. The Pilot Study

The aim was to evaluate and compare 11 12 years old Lithuanian schoolchildren's total class physical activity, time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and passively in both Game play and Motor skills practice physical education classes. The study involved 32 schoolchildren, of which 20 (62.5%) were boys. Physical activity was measured using Tri-axis Acti Trainer Activity Monitor accelerometer. Results showed that 9.4% of schoolchildren reached or exceeded 50% of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in Game play class and none in Motor skills practice class. Boys scored higher than girls on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, but only in Motor skills practice class. Boys also scored higher on total class physical activity, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and lower on time spent passively in Game play rather than Motor skills practice class. Physical activity and passivity indicators in classes with different content in the group of girls did not differ. Results suggest that there is a necessity of reconsideration of the curriculum of physical education classes in Lithuania in terms of time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and including activities which would be both enjoyable and useful.