In today’s fast-paced educational environment, finding ways to boost students’ physical activity is more critical than ever. According to the research article “Before- and After-School Physical Activity: Programs and Best Practices” by Dauenhauer et al. (2022) from the Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, schools can play a transformative role by extending physical activity (PA) opportunities beyond the classroom. The study delves into the benefits and variety of programs available during the before- and after-school hours, offering educators a comprehensive roadmap for developing effective PA initiatives.
Expanding the PA Portfolio
The article begins with an overview of the current guidelines, noting that school-age youth are recommended to participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous PA daily. Yet, even with quality physical education classes meeting these targets weekly, the daily PA needs of children remain unmet. This gap is where before- and after-school programs step in. These programs not only complement in-class physical education but also have the potential to serve as critical touchpoints for boosting overall activity levels.
The authors describe multiple models, including structured programs like Build Our Kids’ Success (BOKS) that deliver a curriculum-focused, 45- to 60-minute session encompassing warm-ups, aerobic activities, skill development, and cooldowns, often complemented by a nutrition message. Conversely, informal settings such as mileage clubs—where kids log laps or steps through creative tracking methods—offer flexible and engaging alternatives. Each program type has its unique advantages, from the structured cognitive and academic boost of BOKS to the spontaneity and community-building inherent in informal initiatives.
Key Results and Benefits
One of the most compelling findings from the article is the array of benefits that before- and after-school PA programs generate:
Physical Health: The literature synthesized in the article demonstrates that regular participation in these programs enhances overall fitness, increases daily PA, and yields improvements in body composition. Structured programs, especially those held on school campuses multiple days per week, showed particularly strong results.
Cognitive and Academic Advantages: Multiple studies cited in the article confirm that even a single bout of physical exercise can enhance brain function. Students who engage in PA before school often experience increased on-task behavior and improved academic performance. This effect is believed to stem from exercise-induced stimulation of neural connections, setting the stage for more effective learning.
Social and Emotional Gains: Beyond physical benefits, the programs have demonstrated improvements in social skills, self-control, and cooperative behaviors. Utilizing models like the Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility (TPSR) framework, after-school programs help students develop life skills that extend well beyond the playground.
Addressing Equity and Structural Challenges
An essential part of the discussion revolves around barriers to equitable access. The study highlights that disparities exist based on socio-economic factors, with students in higher-poverty areas often facing additional hurdles such as a lack of transportation and limited access to safe environments for PA. This inequity requires targeted strategies. The authors recommend that schools and communities collaborate closely, for example, by modifying bus schedules for before-school programs or partnering with local organizations to provide secure, structured activities.
Best Practices for Implementation
The discussion in the article does not merely catalog benefits—it also provides actionable recommendations to maximize the effectiveness of PA programs. Key takeaways include:
Staff Training and Leadership: Having dedicated program leaders, often the physical education teachers, can significantly enhance program quality. These leaders must be well-versed in the Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) guidelines and actively engage with students through strategies like the “LET US Play” principles—eliminating lines, avoiding elimination games, reducing team sizes, and other adjustments to maximize engagement.
Ongoing Evaluation: Continuously assessing program quality and inclusivity ensures that the benefits of these initiatives are distributed across the entire student body. Regular evaluations allow for adjustments that address changing student interests and logistical challenges.
Community Engagement: Successful programs integrate support from school administrators, teachers, and community partners. This collaborative approach not only secures necessary resources but also reinforces the role of the school as a hub for holistic youth development.
Conclusion
The article serves as a compelling call to action for educators and policy makers. With robust evidence supporting both the physical and cognitive benefits of before- and after-school PA programs, schools have an incredible opportunity to impact students’ lives beyond academic achievement. By embracing diverse program models, addressing equity challenges, and committing to best practices and continuous improvement, educational communities can create environments where every student thrives physically, mentally, and socially.
This blog underscores that expanding PA opportunities isn’t just about getting kids moving—it’s about laying the foundation for lifelong health and learning, a benefit that resonates long after the final bell rings.
Full Article:
Dauenhauer, B., Kulinna, P., Marttinen, R., & Stellino, M. B. (2022). Before- and After-School Physical Activity: Programs and Best Practices. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, 93(5), 20–26. https://doi.org/10.1080/07303084.2022.2053474
This blog post was written with the assistance of AI to support clarity and accessibility. It is intended to help disseminate and discuss research findings with a broader audience. However, for the most accurate and reliable information—including conclusions and practical applications—please refer to the original peer-reviewed publication on which this blog is based. The peer-reviewed article remains the most authoritative source.
