University of Bristol Study finds Children’s Activity Still too Low

University of Bristol Study finds Children's Activity Still too Low 

Several studies have now shown that children’s physical activity nosedived during Covid. Understandably, months of being stuck at home, unable to attend activities or play sport took their toll, and a nationwide effort is underway to repair the damage. As yet however, it appears that children’s activity levels have been slow to recover, after falling below the national guidelines during the height of the pandemic crisis. A new study by a team at the University of Bristol found that 10 and 11 year olds averaged 56 minutes of physical activity a day, compared with the recommended hour. This represents a decline of 8 minutes, or 13% of pre-Covid levels.

The data was gathered through the use of accelerometers, worn by 393 children from 23 schools in the Bristol area. This was compared to data from 1,296 children from 50 schools in a study conducted before the pandemic. Notably, in addition to the overall decline, the study found that children’s activity declines at the weekend, dropping to just 46 minutes. However, this mirrored a pre-pandemic trend of less exercise at the end of the week. What lies behind the trend is less clear, although it is possible that increased smartphone usage may contribute.

Against this background there is a clear opportunity for new entrants to the Children’s Activity sector. Demand is already high, with most settings having bounced back from pandemic closure, but the Bristol university research demonstrates a further need for more, accessible, provision. The benefits of an active lifestyle are well known, and habits instilled when young will last a lifetime.

The Bristol University study can be found here.