Students who learn standards-based PE engage in more daily physical activity

LANSING, Mich. – Students taught with the Exemplary Physical Education Curriculum (EPEC) performed better than non-EPEC students in motor skill development, self efficacy and daily physical activity according to a recent study funded by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

The study evaluated 1,195 4th and 5th grade students from 16 different Michigan schools over a two-year period. Evaluators measured motor skills, self-efficacy, daily physical activity and fitness levels.

The results of the study show that EPEC is more effective than "standard practice" curricula in improving motor skill performance, self-efficacy, and daily physical activity levels. The findings support the link between motor skill level competence and overall physical activity levels. The study also supports the theory that students who are taught how to perform specific motor skills (i.e. throwing a ball, skipping, leaping) are more confident about engaging in physical activity. Confidence in performing physical activity then leads to an increase in daily physical activity, as found in the study.

"We believe physical education is more than a place to exercise, it is a place to learn," says Glenna DeJong, vice president of educational programs for the Michigan Fitness Foundation. "The CDC supports our contention that EPEC can help students master skills, foster confidence and promote physical activity throughout the day."

EPEC is a Michigan-created physical education curriculum that addresses the content standards of the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) and the Michigan Department of Education.Unlike physical activity programs, EPEC is a true curriculum that provides step-by-step instruction enabling all students to be successful in the physical education classroom.

EPEC teaches students the knowledge and skills they need to cultivate the competence and confidence to enjoy physical activity for a lifetime. It is currently used by thousands of teachers across Michigan and throughout the United States.

Read the abstract of "Promoting Elementary Physical Education: Results of a School-Based Evaluation Study" from Health Education & Behavior.