Apply Today

If you are looking for a rewarding career
in online therapy apply today!

APPLY NOW

Sign Up For a Demo Today

Does your school need
Online Therapy Services

SIGN UP

Boosting Physical Activity in Kids: Insights from Recent Research

Boosting Physical Activity in Kids: Insights from Recent Research

Introduction

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the physical activity levels of children and adolescents have been significantly impacted. A recent study titled "National trends and ecological factors of physical activity engagement among U.S youth before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cohort study from 2019 to 2021" provides critical insights into these trends. This blog aims to guide practitioners in improving their skills by implementing the outcomes of this research and encouraging further exploration.

Understanding the Research

The study analyzed data from the National Survey of Children’s Health, focusing on physical activity levels among 82,068 participants aged 6–17 over three years. It revealed a notable decline in physical activity among children and adolescents during the pandemic, with a recovery observed in children by 2021, but not in adolescents.

Key ecological factors influencing physical activity included health status, weight, screen time, peer relationships, parental involvement, family resilience, and school participation. Sleep duration was a significant predictor for children, while mental health status was crucial for adolescents.

Practical Applications for Practitioners

Practitioners can leverage these findings to design targeted interventions:

Practitioners should also consider the role of schools in promoting physical activity through enhanced sports programs and physical education tailored to different age groups.

Encouraging Further Research

While this study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to explore the long-term impacts of the pandemic on physical activity levels and the effectiveness of targeted interventions. Practitioners are encouraged to stay informed about emerging research and adapt their strategies accordingly.

Conclusion

The study underscores the need for age-specific interventions to promote physical activity among children and adolescents. By understanding the ecological factors at play, practitioners can design effective strategies to enhance physical activity levels and overall well-being in young populations.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: National trends and ecological factors of physical activity engagement among U.S youth before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cohort study from 2019 to 2021.


Citation: Zhu, Y., Chan, D. K. C., Pan, Q., Rhodes, R. E., & Tao, S. (2024). National trends and ecological factors of physical activity engagement among U.S youth before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cohort study from 2019 to 2021. BMC Public Health, 24, 19486. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-024-19486-7
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

Apply Today

If you are looking for a rewarding career
in online therapy apply today!

APPLY NOW

Sign Up For a Demo Today

Does your school need
Online Therapy Services

SIGN UP

Apply Today

If you are looking for a rewarding career
in online therapy apply today!

APPLY NOW

Sign Up For a Demo Today

Does your school need
Online Therapy Services

SIGN UP