Evidence Tools
MCHbest. Physical Activity.

Overview. Analysis indicates that an intervention where teachers assign physical activity requirements outside the classroom can increase physical activity levels in elementary school children. These interventions sometimes involve parents' signing-off on their child's activities to promote accountability. The interventions can also include teacher training (e.g., to help develop a curriculum supporting physical activity).[1]

Evidence. Moderate Evidence. Strategies based on moderate evidence show a clear trend toward positive results. While these approaches are likely to be effective, further research is needed to confirm their impact. Implement with evaluation to better understand specific local effects.

Access the peer-reviewed evidence through the MCH Digital Library or related evidence source.

Potential Data Sources. Data to support this strategy can be accessed through:

• Student physical activity logs
• Student surveys (perceived value, enjoyment)
• Teacher feedback on implementation challenges and benefits

Outcome Components. This strategy has shown to have impact on the following outcomes (Read more about these categories):

• Environmental Health. This strategy improves the impact of physical, chemical, and biological factors in the environment on health.
• Health and Health Behaviors/Behavior Change. This strategy improves individuals' physical and mental health and their adoption of healthy behaviors (e.g., healthy eating, physical activity).

Detailed Outcomes. For specific outcomes related to each study supporting this strategy, access the peer-reviewed evidence and read the Intervention Results for each study.

Intervention Type. Policy Development and Enforcement (Read more about intervention types and levels as defined by the Public Health Intervention Wheel).

Intervention Level. Community-Focused

Examples from the Field. Access descriptions of ESMs that use this strategy or aligned components.

Sample ESMs. Here are sample ESMs to use as models for your own measures using the RBA framework (see The Role of Title V in Adapting Strategies).