Enhancing health in primary school: Unveiling the impact of the “Physical Snack” Project

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the "Physical Snack" Project in Apulia, Italy, on the physical fitness development of primary schoolchildren. The sample comprised 765 children (399 males, aged 11.20 ± 1.72; 366 females, aged 11.32 ± 1.76), drawn from three primary and secondary schools The intervention protocol, implemented between March and June 2022, included active breaks, physically engaging lessons, and additional active breaks before and after school. The evaluation at two time points (t0 and t1) encompassed anthropometric measurements and a battery of physical fitness tests, namely standing long jump, medicine ball throw (2 kg), 6min walking test, sit-ups, 10 × 5 shuttle run, and hand grip. The findings revealed a statistically significant enhancement in standing long jump (p < 0.05) and the 6-min walking test (p < 0.01). The preliminary outcomes of the "Physical Snack" project underscore the importance of a robust methodological–didactic structure in motor task implementation, especially in how they are presented by teachers, to intentionally foster specific components of physical fitness. The observed improvements in physical fitness, considered an indicator of health status, emphasize the potential of incorporating active breaks and "active" school interventions for schoolchildren. This approach not only contributes to the betterment of physical health but also creates opportunities to encourage and extend the duration of physical activity among students.