Marathon Kids UK: study design and protocol for a mixed methods evaluation of a school-based running programme

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Education
• Sports Science

Background:

• Schools are key settings for promoting physical activity.
• Programme implementation in schools is complex and influenced by context.
• The Marathon Kids running program is a school-based initiative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify implementation processes of the Marathon Kids program in schools.
• To explore contextual factors influencing program implementation and effectiveness.
• To examine the link between implementation levels and perceived outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A realist evaluation framework with a mixed-method, single-group, before-and-after design.
• Data collection included accelerometry, physical activity, psychosocial measures, logs, observations, interviews, and focus groups.
• Recruitment of Year 5 pupils and teachers from six primary schools in Leicestershire, UK.

Main Results:

• Implementation processes and contextual factors varied across schools.
• The level of program implementation was related to perceived effectiveness.
• Further analysis is needed to fully understand the relationship with physical activity outcomes.

Conclusions:

• School-based physical activity programs require attention to implementation processes and context.
• Understanding these factors is crucial for optimizing program effectiveness.
• The Marathon Kids program shows potential but requires tailored approaches for successful integration.