Background/Purpose The project aimed to demonstrate the efficacy of a lifespan physical education program, referred to as a fitness club model, in a high school setting.
Method Quantitative and qualitative data collection methods were used to explore students' moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), components of health-related physical fitness, and perceptions toward physical activity and physical education. Twenty-eight female students (17 intervention; 11 control) consented and participated in the study. MVPA data were collected during 25% of the class sessions from both the intervention and control groups. Interobserver reliability (IOA) checks averaged 93.51%.
Analysis/Results The average student MVPA in the intervention group equaled 57% while the control group students reached 36%. Independent t-test revealed a significant difference between MVPA levels in the control and intervention groups, F(1, 16) = -4.53, p = .0003. Pre/post fitness testing variables included height, weight, body mass index, waist measurement, sit and reach, grip strength, push-ups, sit-ups and a 10 minute walk test. Fitness variables were tested using a two-way (treatment x time) RM ANOVA. No significant differences in fitness test measures were found. Preliminary analysis of the focus group interviews conducted at the beginning, middle, end, and 10-month follow up suggest the following preliminary themes: choice of activities is important, students prefer more variety of activities, and that single sex classes were appealing to study participants.
Conclusions The fitness club model is a promising secondary level approach that deserves further study.
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