EFFECTS OF RECREATIONAL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON PHYSICAL FITNESS AND PHYSIOLOGICAL HEALTH IN AFRICAN SCHOOL CHILDREN AGED 6–12 YEARS (2015 – 2025): A SCOPING REVIEW

Courage Kobla Adenyoh, Emmanuel Osei Sarpong, Ekpor Anyimah-Ackah

Abstract


Background: Recreational physical activity is a cost-effective way to stem rising non-communicable disease in African children, yet evidence is scattered. Objective: To synthesise primary studies published between January 2015 and June 2025 on the impact of recreational physical activity on the physical fitness and physiological health of African pupils aged six to twelve years. Methods: Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, five databases were searched for peer-reviewed English-language studies evaluating sports, active play or school programmes; systematic reviews were excluded. Results: Six studies met criteria: three cluster randomised controlled trials and three cross-sectional surveys from Egypt, Ghana, the Ivory Coast, Tanzania and South Africa. Structured activity improved coordination, leg strength and shuttle-run endurance. Interventions with trained teachers and equipment additionally lowered waist circumference, resting blood pressure, glycated haemoglobin and lipid ratios. Observational data revealed a dose–response between daily moderate to vigorous activity and estimated maximal oxygen uptake. Children in rural settings were more active and fitter than those in urban townships. Girls engaged in less vigorous activity but, when active, equalled or surpassed boys on selected fitness tests. Conclusion: Although the evidence base is small, it consistently shows that well-delivered recreational physical activity yields measurable gains in cardiovascular and musculoskeletal fitness and early metabolic health in African primary school children. Policies ensuring teacher training, safe play spaces and inclusive activity opportunities are essential. 

 

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Keywords


recreational physical activity; physical fitness; physiological health; schoolchildren; Africa

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejpe.v13i1.6511

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