Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 18, 2026
06:51
Physical Activity Measurement in Children Accepting Table Tennis Training
Published on: July 27, 2022
2.7K
Physical Activity Disparities Between Students With and Without Disabilities Across School-Based Physical Activity
Kahyun Nam1, Pamela H Kulinna2, Hans van der Mars2
1College of Education and Human Service Professions, University of Minnesota Duluth, Duluth, Minnesota, USA.
The Journal of School Health
|April 17, 2026
Summary
Students with disabilities (SWD) are less physically active during school, but not before school. Inclusive school environments and policies are crucial for equal physical activity (PA) access.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric obesity prevention
- School health promotion
- Physical activity in education
Background:
- Students with disabilities (SWD) exhibit higher obesity risks and lower physical activity (PA) levels than students without disabilities (SWOD).
- Comprehensive School Physical Activity Programs (CSPAP) aim for equitable PA opportunities, but SWD activity differences in secondary schools are understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) differences between SWD and SWOD within secondary school settings.
- To identify environmental factors influencing MVPA levels across various school-based PA opportunities.
Main Methods:
- Measured MVPA using activity monitors and observational tools throughout the school day and during CSPAP components.
- Included 124 students (grades 6-8), with 33 identified as SWD.
Main Results:
- SWD demonstrated significantly lower MVPA than SWOD during the school day, Physical Education (PE), and recess.
- Before-school PA did not show significant MVPA differences between SWD and SWOD.
- Disability status, PE enrollment, and environmental factors (organized activities, equipment) predicted MVPA.
Conclusions:
- SWD are less physically active than SWOD during PE and other in-school PA opportunities.
- Inclusive, organized, and well-equipped PA environments are vital for reducing activity disparities.
- School health policies must ensure equitable access to quality PA for all students.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Learning Disabilities
757
Learning disabilities are cognitive disorders caused by neurological impairments that affect cognitive functions like language and reading, without indicating overall intellectual or developmental challenges. These disabilities differ from global intellectual or developmental disabilities as they are limited to distinct cognitive functions. Common learning disabilities include dysgraphia, dyslexia, and dyscalculia, each of which impacts unique aspects of learning.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
757
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
1.9K
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
1.9K