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Increasing adolescents' physical activity levels through a comprehensive school-based physical activity program:
Marion Gasser1, Andrea-Maria Nadenbousch2, Fabienne Egger3
1Institute of Sport Science, University of Bern, Bremgartenstrasse 145, Bern, 3012, Switzerland. marion.gasser@unibe.ch.
This study introduces "Active School," a new program promoting physical activity in Swiss schools. It aims to improve adolescent health through teacher training and comprehensive activity promotion.
Area of Science:
- Public Health and School-Based Interventions
- Adolescent Health Promotion
- Physical Activity Research
Background:
- Most Swiss adolescents do not meet WHO physical activity recommendations, despite known health benefits.
- Schools are key settings for promoting physical activity, but comprehensive programs are lacking in Switzerland.
- Teachers as Physical Activity Leaders (PALs) are crucial but lack specific training in Swiss schools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement and evaluate 'Active School,' a comprehensive school-based physical activity program for Swiss secondary schools.
- To integrate specific training for Physical Activity Leaders (PALs) within the program.
- To assess the program's effectiveness and implementation process.
Main Methods:
- Cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) in 12 secondary schools over 24 months.
- Intervention based on Comprehensive School Physical Activity Program (CSPAP) with PAL professional development.
- Primary outcome: moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (accelerometers); Secondary outcomes: inactivity, fitness, well-being (questionnaires).
Main Results:
- Effectiveness of the 'Active School' program on students' physical activity levels will be assessed.
- Impact on secondary outcomes including fitness, well-being, and psychosocial measures will be evaluated.
- Process evaluation will examine implementation outcomes like reach, feasibility, and sustainability.
Conclusions:
- This study pioneers the implementation and evaluation of a CSPAP within the Swiss school system.
- Integrated PAL training and dual effectiveness/process evaluation are key strengths.
- Findings will inform future school-based physical activity promotion strategies in Switzerland.
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