Methodological considerations and impact of school‐based interventions on objectively measured physical activity in adolescents: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. (10th February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Borde, R.; Smith, J. J.; Sutherland, R.; Nathan, N.; Lubans, D. R.
• Is Part Of: Obesity reviews. Volume 18:Number 4(2017:Apr.)
• Page Start: 476
• Page End: 490
• Publication Date: 2017-02-10
• Subjects: Accelerometer -- physical activity -- school -- youth; Obesity -- Periodicals; 616.398005
• DOI: 10.1111/obr.12517
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1467-7881

Abstract

Summary: Objective: The aims of this systematic review and meta‐analysis are (i) to determine the impact of school‐based interventions on objectively measured physical activity among adolescents and (ii) to examine accelerometer methods and decision rule reporting in previous interventions. Methods: A systematic search was performed to identify randomized controlled trials targeting adolescents (age: ≥10 years), conducted in the school setting, and reporting objectively measured physical activity. Random effects meta‐analyses were conducted to determine the pooled effects of previous interventions on total and moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity. Potential moderators of intervention effects were also explored. Results: Thirteen articles met the inclusion criteria, and twelve were included in the meta‐analysis. The pooled effects were small and non‐significant for both total physical activity (standardized mean difference = 0.02 [95% confidence interval = −0.13 to 0.18]) and moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (standardized mean difference = 0.24 [95% confidence interval = −0.08 to 0.56]). Sample age and accelerometer compliance were significant moderators for total physical activity, with a younger sample and higher compliance associated with larger effects. Conclusion: Previous school‐based physical activity interventions targeting adolescents have been largely unsuccessful, particularly for older adolescents. There is a need for more high‐quality research using objective monitoring in this population. Future interventions should comply with best‐practice recommendations regarding physical activity monitoring protocols.