Physical Activity, Perceived Competence and Enjoyment During High School Physical Education

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the levels of physical activity, perceived competence and enjoyment of English secondary school children. Seventy three students (mean age 13.1 years) from 5 schools took part Physical activity was assessed during Physical Education (PE) lessons using heart rate telemetry. Perceived competence and enjoyment were measured by a post lesson questionnaire. Perceived competence and enjoyment were moderately correlated among boys (p<0.001) and girls (p<0.05). Girls'PE enjoyment was negatively associated with levels of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA, p<0.05). Team games engaged students in most MVPA (p<0.0001). Boys enjoyed team games more than girls, who in turn most enjoyed individual activities (p<0.0001). Students classified in the low MVPA group reported higher levels of enjoyment than their high MVPA peers (p<0.05). Continued research into the relationship between psychological outcomes and physical activity within PE is necessary to determine teaching approaches that most effectively promote physical activity promotion.