This report, commissioned by the Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD) and prepared by the Sax Institute, investigates strategies to enhance physical activity among primary school children (aged 5-12) in school playgrounds. The review evaluates interventions targeting physical activity during unstructured playground time, examining their effectiveness, implementation characteristics, and factors influencing success.
A systematic search of peer-reviewed literature published since 2022 identified 16 relevant studies. Effective strategies to promote physical activity in school playgrounds include implementing active breaks (e.g., 3 x 10 minutes/day) and extending recess durations, which significantly increase moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), particularly among younger children. Allowing sports uniforms also enhances comfort and academic performance. Well-designed playgrounds, such as those with nature-based features, creative activity zones, and clear play markings, foster both active and social play, while overcrowding and poor maintenance reduce effectiveness. Effective physical activity interventions in school playgrounds require tailored approaches addressing space, inclusivity, and systemic constraints. Strategies such as cost-effective, co-designed active breaks, and diverse, well-maintained play environments can sustainably improve physical activity and wellbeing among students.

Citation

Alex Schiavuzzi, Cathelijne van Kemenade, Eleanor Wilson, Nick Petrunoff, Eileen Goldberg. Physical activity in school playgrounds: an Accelerated Evidence Snapshot prepared by the Sax Institute (www.saxinstitute.org.au) for Northern Sydney Local Health District, 2025. DOI:

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