ERIC Number: EJ1391761
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023-Apr
Pages: 9
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0273-5024
EISSN: EISSN-1543-2769
The Impact of Pandemic Lockdowns and Remote Learning on Student Fitness: An Investigation of Changes to High School Student Fitness Levels
Nolan, Ryan; Zbaracki, Matthew D.
Journal of Teaching in Physical Education, v42 n2 p341-349 Apr 2023
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact on health-related fitness resulting from COVID-19 lockdowns on male high school students in Melbourne, Australia. Method: A total of 146 students completed fitness testing in February and retesting in November following 7 months of remote learning. Fitness tests conducted were 20-m shuttle run (Beep Test), flexed arm hang, body mass index, push-ups, sit-ups, and sit and reach. Results: The mean fitness levels of this cohort decreased across the health-related fitness components. Decreases were varying in magnitude, body composition (d = 0.3), flexibility (d = 0.56), muscular strength (d = 0.64), muscular endurance (d = 0.39 and d = 0.26), and cardiovascular endurance (d = 0.96). Discussion: The impact on students' fitness levels was noteworthy, and the long-term impacts of this decrease are yet to be seen. This research brings focus to what can be done to maintain adolescent fitness when their usual exercise opportunities are not available.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Physical Fitness, COVID-19, Pandemics, School Closing, Males, Muscular Strength, Adolescents, Physical Activity Level, Secondary School Students, Distance Education, Body Weight, Body Composition
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Australia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A