Effect of Extra-curricular Sports Activities After School on Primary School Children's Academic Performance

Effect of Extra-curricular Sports Activities After School on Primary School Children's Academic Performance in China: A Non-inferiority Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

The process of urbanization and the rapid development of information technology have greatly reduced the space and time available for children's outdoor activities. In this study, we expect to study the effects of the addition of physical education classes after school on the academic performance, mental health, physical fitness, and myopia among primary school children.

Urbanization has led to a shrinking of the space suitable for residential activities and a dramatic change in the behavioural patterns, which is particularly evident in children. The spread and development of information technology has reduced children's time for physical activity. Previous studies have found that physical activity is essential for the growth and development of adolescents, preventing and reducing obesity, slowing the development of myopia, and is closely linked to mental health. However, parents in China are concerned that increased outdoor activity will reduce the amount of time spent studying and affect academic performance. Currently, there is a lack of strong evidence on the impact of physical activity on academic performance. In this study, we propose to provide after-school physical education classes for students in primary schools in a rapidly urbanizing area, and assess the effects of the intervention on children's academic performance, physical fitness, myopia, and mental health to provide evidence for the development of educational programs and arrangements for after-school activities.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Pupils in the third and fourth grades of primary schools in Yudu County;
2. Voluntary participation in this study with consent and informed consent signed by guardians.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Exclusion criteria for school

  1. Lack of a third or fourth grade;
  2. Average class size less than 30 students;
  3. No conditions for two classes to play sports at the same time.

• Exclusion criteria for students 4. Two or more days Monday to Friday not available to participate in studies under the project programme; 5. Unsuitability for health or physical reasons to participate in sports activities; 6. Refusal to sign informed consent.