Pedometer step guidelines for physical education settings

Abstract

The role of Physical Education (PE) in Australia is multifaceted, with physical activity (PA) participation recognised as the means by which a variety of learning outcomes are achieved. There is evidence to suggest that PA accrued during PE has the potential to be health enhancing. It may also be the only opportunity for some children, especially those from low socioeconomic backgrounds to accrue PA. This paper identifies criterion-referenced pedometer step guidelines as a valid, reliable, unobtrusive, and cost-effective means by which PA can be objectively quantified in PE settings. With the current state of the Health and Physical Education national curriculum area in focus, the application of pedometer step guidelines in PE settings are outlined.