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Elementary Students' Physical Activity Levels and Behavior When Using Stability Balls
Heather E Erwin1, Alicia Fedewa2, Soyeon Ahn3
1Heather E. Erwin, PhD, is Associate Professor, Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, University of Kentucky College of Education, Lexington; heather.erwin@uky.edu.
Summary
Stability balls do not increase physical activity compared to chairs but do provide light-intensity activity. Classroom behavior remained unaffected, indicating stability balls do not detract from the learning environment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric physical activity
- Classroom behavior interventions
- Ergonomic classroom furniture
Background:
- Physical activity is linked to better student behavior.
- Stability balls are sometimes used to influence classroom behavior.
- Research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare physical activity levels between students using stability balls and those using chairs.
- To determine if stability balls positively influence student behavior in the classroom.
Main Methods:
- Forty-three fourth-grade students participated.
- Participants used stability balls during class while wearing accelerometers.
- Behavioral observations were conducted on a subset of students.
Main Results:
- Accelerometer data showed significant decreases in activity counts.
- No significant differences in on-task behavior were observed between stability ball and chair users.
- Students using stability balls accumulated light-intensity physical activity.
Conclusions:
- Stability balls do not necessarily increase physical activity over traditional chairs.
- Stability balls can provide light-intensity physical activity.
- Classroom behavior was not negatively impacted by the use of stability balls.
