School-Based Physical Education Program and Its Effects on Motor Fitness in Malaysian Children

Impact of a Novel Primary School-based Physical Education Program on Physical and Motor Fitness of Malaysian Children: a Randomized Controlled Trial

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to compare the effects of a standard school physical education program (SPEP) and a rhythmic and gymnastic activities-based school physical education program (RGPEP) on the physical and motor fitness parameters of Malaysian primary school children.

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the impact of two distinct physical education programs on the physical and motor fitness of Malaysian primary school children. The intervention group participates in a rhythmic and gymnastic activities-based physical education program (RGPEP), designed to enhance balance, coordination, flexibility, and agility through structured, progressive activities. The control group follows the standard school physical education program (SPEP) in line with the national curriculum, which emphasizes general fitness and physical activity without specific rhythmic or gymnastic components.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Children aged 8 years at the time of enrollment.
• Both boys and girls.
• Regular school attendance during the academic year.
• No diagnosed health conditions or chronic diseases that could interfere with physical activity.
• Not involved in extracurricular sports activities outside the school environment.
• Not engaged in extra traveling to and from school on foot or by bicycle.
• Parents or legal guardians provided written informed consent.
• The child provided verbal assent to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Children missing more than 20% of scheduled physical education classes.
• Overweight children with a BMI ≥ 23 kg/m².
• Underweight children with a BMI < 18.5 kg/m².
• Children involved in regular sports training or participation in extracurricular sports activities during the intervention period.
• Children with any pre-existing medical conditions or injuries that could limit participation in physical activities.
• Children with developmental or motor impairments affecting their ability to perform the required fitness activities.
• Children on any medication that could interfere with their performance or physical fitness evaluation.