Effects of a Physical Activity Intervention on Movement Behaviour Patterns and Body Mass Index: A Compositional Data Analysis Approach

Objectives Childhood physical inactivity is a significant public health concern, exacerbated by contemporary sedentary lifestyles. School-based interventions, including physical education (PE), and targeted PE teacher training programs, have been introduced to address this trend by promoting increased movements. However, the impact of these programs on the complete range of movement behaviors is still not well understood. This study assessed the effects of the Promoting Physical Activity through Physical Education (PEPA) training program on the movement behavior composition of Thai primary school children aged 10–12 years. Methods A longitudinal study was conducted with 1,343 participants from North and East Thailand, with assessments at baseline and 14 weeks. Compositional data analysis and linear mixed models were employed to determine changes in movement behaviour patterns, both in varying adiposity levels and as a result of the intervention. Results Intervention group exhibited a clustering towards higher moderate-to-vigorous and light PA compared to controls. Additionally, non-overweight children experienced greater improvements in moderate-to-vigorous PA, while overweight children showed reductions in sedentary behaviour. Linear mixed models confirm these shifts, demonstrating a significant decrease in the active-to-passive movement ratio at 14 weeks, highlighting the intervention’s role in fostering more active behaviours. Conclusion The PEPA training program effectively reshapes movement behaviour composition among school children by increasing active behaviours and decreasing sedentary time. Despite the concern regarding potential sleep reduction, these promising results support comprehensive, school-based strategies to drive sustainable PA promotion. Further research is warranted to refine these interventions for long-term success.