The town of Champigny-sur-Marne has launched a physical ability assessment program for its CM1 students, titled 'CAP’A’CITÉS'. The objective is to evaluate the strength, flexibility, coordination, speed, and endurance of 976 young residents from 46 classes. This initiative is part of a preventive approach to sports health from the earliest age, aiming to build lasting connections between families, the Maison Sport Santé (Sports Health Center), and local sports associations.
Physical activity is promoted as an essential means to build a healthy body by developing the cardiovascular system, strengthening the skeleton and muscle mass, and preventing childhood obesity and chronic diseases. Beyond physical benefits, sports practice is presented as a school of life, teaching respect for rules, teamwork, perseverance, emotional management, self-esteem, and social integration.
Sports educators from the Maison Sport Santé and the municipal Sports department, in collaboration with teachers, are using the 'Diagnoform Kids' tool from the Institut des Rencontres de la Forme. The approach is fun and positive, focusing on encouragement rather than guilt. The program includes 30 minutes of adapted workshops followed by a awareness quiz.
Each child will receive a participation diploma along with their test results, which, combined with their BMI, will determine their fitness quotient. This data will allow young people to become aware of their strengths and potential areas for improvement. In case of detected difficulties, parents will be directed to the Maison Sport Santé for potential guidance towards partner sports associations.
The results will also help teachers and the Sports department adjust the planning of sports activities in schools, leisure centers, and 'SportVacances' (ages 8-15) holiday camps, and to link with the tests conducted upon entry to middle school.
The operation involves 9 staff members from the municipal Sports department and the Maison Sport Santé over 4 days (Monday 2, Tuesday 3, Thursday 5, and Friday 6 November), with 3 gymnasiums reserved each day to facilitate the testing conditions.
