Quantifying Physical Activity in First- Through Fourth- Grade Physical Education via Pedometry

The aim of this study was to determine pedometry steps per minute (SPM) cutscores that accurately quantify physical activity (PA) time in first-through fourth-grade physical education. A total of 257 participants were grouped in two data pools, first-and second-grade (n = 126), and third- and fourth-grade (n = 131). Systematic observation was the PA criterion instrument and pedometry was the predictor instrument. Correlations between physical activity measures were strong (r = 82–89, p < .01). Ten min of PA and 33.33% of the lesson time engaged in PA within a 30-min class can be quantified by 61–63 SPM for first- and second-grade, and 58–61 SPM for third- and fourth-grade. In conclusion: (a) SPM values were a valid indicator of students achieving or not achieving PA criteria, and (b) pedometry is a valid and practical tool for physical activity surveillance within physical education.

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