Perceived school physical activity environment and school physical activity among Japanese elementary school children

Abstract

Background : The purpose of the present study was to develop a school physical activity environment scale and to examine the relationship between school physical activity environment and school physical activity among Japanese elementary school children. Methods : Internet-based cross-sectional survey was conducted to 1,074 Japanese guardians who had elementary school children. Sociodemographic attributes,school physical activity environment scale and time of physical activity at school for a usual lunch time recess and after school were assessed. Results：Exploratory factor analyses identified 3 factors (equipment,facility, and safety). Confirmatory factor analyses to examine the factorial validity revealed acceptable fit indices and the reliability of the scale was acceptable. Those who perceived good these environments were significantly more likely to be physically active in school. Conclusion：The school physical activity environment scale was developed in the present study and demonstrated acceptable factorial validity,internal consistency and inter-rater reliability.