Policies, programs, and the physical environment: School-based opportunities for physical activity in West Virginia Schools

Background: School-based opportunities for physical activity (PA) are important for preventing obesity among youth, and may positively impact families and the community. The purpose of this study is to capture current policies, programming, and environmental resources for physical activity in WV schools. Methods: WV school principals (N=601) and PE teachers (N=413) were surveyed during the 2008-2009 school year. Results: PE teachers reported the average class length was 45 minutes (SD 16.9) and 51% of PE time was spent in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). PE teachers indicated schools offered recess (70%), physical activity breaks (17%), and movement based instruction (11%). 80% of principals reported recommending MVPA at recess and 6% required this. Outside of PE, the most frequently offered PA program for students was team sports (50%), while walking/running activities were most frequently offered for faculty (32%) and the community (22%). Only 23% of principals reported offering PA/PE programs for families. Most principals reported having a gymnasium (79%) and 90% of elementary principals had a playground/playground equipment; other facilities included an all purpose field (50%) and a track/walking trail (25%). 64% of principals reported both indoor and outdoor facilities were available to community members outside of the school day. Conclusions: Schools have the potential to provide students and community residents with programs and facilities to engage in regular PA. Improvements are needed to increase MVPA during recess and PE class, PA programs for families, movement-based instruction, and PA opportunities for community members.