Feasibility of SHARK: a physical activity skill-development program for overweight and obese children.
This study aimed to assess the feasibility of a community-based physical activity motor development program, called SHARK, among overweight and obese children. Thirteen overweight or obese children aged 8-12 years were recruited to the 10-week program from the Illawarra region of NSW, Australia. Measures at baseline, post-treatment and 9-month follow-up included BMI, motor development, perceived competence, objectively measured physical activity and performance of an activity of daily living. At post-treatment and follow-up motor development, perceived athletic competence and perceived global self-worth had significantly increased. Although recorded minutes in moderate-to-vigorous activity significantly declined at post-treatment and follow-up, activity daily counts did not. The results indicate that community-based activity programs designed to improve the motor development and perceived competence of overweight and obese children are feasible and may have important and sustainable benefits. However, a larger sample size and a comparison group are required to determine whether this approach can impact on activity levels and weight status.
Cliff
Dylan P
DP
Child Obesity Research Centre, University of Wollongong, Australia; Faculty of Education, University of Wollongong, Australia.
Wilson
Amy
A
Okely
Anthony D
AD
Mickle
Karen J
KJ
Steele
Julie R
JR
D002648:Child; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000502:physiology*; D009048:Motor Skills / Q000502:physiology*; D009765:Obesity / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012649:Self Concept