This report considers evidence for tracking of indicators of physical activity during childhood and adolescence, the transition from adolescence into adulthood, and adulthood. Tracking refers to the tendency of individuals to maintain their rank or position within a group over time. Longitudinal data for at least two points in time are necessary.…

This guide discusses the assessment of heart rate and, in particular, the assessment of heart rate using a heart monitor. Part 1, "Foundation for the Use of Heart Rate," reviews literature about heart rate assessment and heart rate monitors, offering an overview of national guidelines for physical activity. It focuses on the importance…

This conference paper focuses on how to motivate elementary students toward NASPE standards. It includes integrated physical education lesson plans based on the the NASPE standards and provides tips for assessment. (AD)

This report examines school physical education (PE) and how it can be an important part of the national physical activity promotion effort. Section 1 introduces the issue of youth activity and PE, noting that schools and universities must reintroduce daily, quality physical activity as a key component of comprehensive education. Section 2…

It is the position of the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) that all elementary school children should be provided with at least one daily period of recess of at least 20 minutes in length. Recess is an essential component of a comprehensive school physical activity program and of the total education experience for…

This study compared 36 learning disabled school-grade children with 17 controls matched for mental age on the ability to inhibit hand movement. Using a "Move A Ball Slowly" game-like apparatus, responses suggested older rather than younger disabled children had more difficulty. (Author)

Oxygen uptake and heart rate kinetics for submaximum exercise (bicycle riding) were compared in prepubescent boys and adult men. Resulting data suggest that children and adults do not differ significantly in cardiorespiratory adjustments during low-intensity exercise. (Authors/PP)

Although exercise and physical fitness programs for youth are required curriculum in most schools, the sport coach may not be properly trained in the physiological development of children. Some general guidelines are suggested for planning strength and flexibility exercises for youth in sports. (JN)

The evaluation of a health promotion program indicated that it had successfully used several approaches, including: psychophysical tests, individual health consultants, group programs, mass media, and wellness-oriented social activities. (CJ)

A study was done to determine the relationship between leisure activities and psycho-social adjustment. Results partially supported the hypothesis, which stated that individuals who actively engaged in recreational would suffer from less anxiety and would be more likely to feel in control of their environments. (JN)

Thirteen hyperactive males (ages five through eight) were rated on activity prior to, during, and after a period of ascending music stimuli. It was hypothesized that they would become less active during, rather than before or after, the stimulus. Activity significantly increased during the music program, thus rejecting the hypothesis. (Author/SJL)

This study analyzed the association between physical activity level and cigarette, smokeless tobacco, and marijuana use among public high school students. Youth Risk Behavior Survey data showed significant associations among white males for use of cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and marijuana. Higher physical activity levels were inversely…

Reports a study that examined how levels of physical activity and participation on school athletic teams correlated with tobacco and alcohol use among adolescents. Results indicated that level of physical activity and athletic participation correlated with less cigarette smoking but more binge drinking. (SM)

The second of a two-part series on contraindications to athletic activity, this article examines the sensory, spinal, gastrointestinal, systemic, hematologic, and dermatologic conditions that warrant activity disqualification and provides guidelines about when it is safe to participate. Activity considerations for individuals who have lost a…