Scientific rationale and practical realities of the 140–160 bpm national standard in Chinese school physical education for primary and middle school students

Abstract

Objectives: To examine the scientific rationale, implementation realities, and policy significance of China’s new Compulsory Education Physical Education and Health Curriculum Standard specifying an average in-class heart rate (HR) of 140–160 bpm. Method: Narrative policy and literature analysis using official Ministry of Education documents, international guidelines, and empirical studies on youth HR and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Findings: The 140–160 bpm range equals roughly 65%–80% of age-predicted HRmax, aligning with international MVPA definitions. Early school-based evidence shows uneven attainment due to equipment, training, and interpretive gaps. Conclusion: The standard translates exercise science into educational governance but requires strengthened teacher preparation, digital infrastructure, and equitable funding to achieve sustainable, health-oriented reform.