Feasibility of a High-Intensity Interval Training–Based Fitness Education Unit in Middle School Physical Education

• In Event: Moscone Center West Roundtable Session 3
  In Roundtable Session: Roundtable 3: New Programs, New Models, and Student Learning in Physical Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility of a high intensity interval training (HIIT)-based physical education (PE) unit. The study took place at a public middle school located in a deep southern United States (U.S.) state. Six PE classes were assigned to the HIIT or control group. The HIIT unit lasted eight weeks (twice a week) progressing from five teacher-directed HIIT themes to student-created HIIT exercises and culminated by group presentations. Teachers’ interview data, field observation, and accelerometer-determined in-class physical activity data supported the acceptability of the intervention. Physical activity and fitness (PAF) knowledge, attitude toward PE, and self-reported physical activity and sedentary behavior supported its limited efficacy. The findings are foundational to future larger-scale curriculum interventions.

Authors

• Senlin Chen, Louisiana State University

• Yang Liu, Louisiana State University

• Jared Androzzi, Winthrop University

• Baofu Wang, Louisiana State University

• Xiangli Gu, University of Texas at Arlington