Physical activity during recess in low-income third-grade Texas students.

OBJECTIVES To estimate the prevalence of recess-based moderate and vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and vigorous physical activity (VPA) among third-grade students attending low-income, urban schools in Texas. METHODS Structured observations (N = 77 class and 616 student observations) using SOFIT were conducted over 3 months in 8 elementary schools with majority Hispanic students. RESULTS Students engaged in 66.4% and 19.2% of their ∼20-minute recess time in MVPA and VPA, respectively. Boys engaged in more MVPA and VPA (p < .007). Contextual differences in activity (setting and activity type) were identified. CONCLUSIONS Findings underscore the importance of scheduled recess time for children's physical activity.