Physical functional capacity is the operational capacity of the body to manage tasks that require physical effort and the goals set for it. It manifests itself as the ability to move on one's own, participate in activities and take care of daily chores.
Kuvituskuva: Lapsia urheilukentällä
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Using physical functional capacity, pupils can travel to and from school and recreational activities, and carry their school bag and recreational equipment themselves. They are able to focus, write, draw and do crafts both at school and during their spare time. As a result of good physical functional capacity, pupils can spend time with their friends and do all kinds of recreational activities.

In addition to physical functional capacity, healthy diet and sufficient sleep help pupils cope with the demands of daily life and enjoy recreational activities. Physical functional capacity has a vital impact on pupils' everyday well-being and health.

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Endurance, mobility, speed, strength and skills are the aspects of the physical functional capacity that everybody can improve. Physical functional capacity cannot be stored but developing and maintaining it requires a certain amount of practice.

In addition to physical education lesson at school, playing games during breaks and participating in recreational activities in one's spare time can help improve physical functional capacity. It is recommended that pupils daily get at least one hour of exercise that leaves them out of breath and sweating. That way physical functional capacity is improved and remains good enough for pupils to manage school day and leisure time activities with ease.

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The primary goal of the Move! system is to help pupils and their families understand the connection between physical functional capacity and pupils' health, daily well-being, ability to cope with workload and studying.

To measure pupils' physical functional capacity, Move! system consists of eight sections of measurements that provide information about the state of physical functional capacity. Using the measurements as a basis for pupil evaluation should be avoided. The measurements have been developed and their reliability confirmed through several experiments and pilot studies. The sections measure pupils' endurance, strength, speed, mobility, balance, and basic motor skills. With the help of the feedback system, pupils, their guardians, health care professionals at the school as well as their teachers receive information about pupils' physical functional capacity, its connection to the pupils' well-being and advice on how to improve it.

Measurement sections

  • 20 meter line run (endurance, movement skills)
  • 5 continuous jumps (lower limb strength, speed, dynamic balance skills, movement skills)
  • Upper body lift (core strength)
  • Push-up (upper limb strength)
  • Mobility of the body
  • Squat (mobility of the pelvis area and lower limbs)
  • Lower back extension (range of motion of the lower back and hip area joints)
  • Mobility of the right and left shoulders (mobility of upper limbs and shoulder area)
  • Throw-catch combination (handling skills, perceptual motor skills, upper limb strength).
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