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Integrating Physical Activity into a Nutrition and Exercise Science Middle School Curriculum: The THINK Program
Arlette Perry1, Joseph Bonner1, Sophia Williams1
1Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, University of Miami, 5202 SW University Drive, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
The Translational Health in Nutrition and Kinesiology (THINK) program improved adolescent health by enhancing physical fitness, body composition, and knowledge in nutrition and exercise science. This whole-child approach positively impacted lifestyle behaviors and well-being.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Kinesiology
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Growing interest in
- whole child
- initiatives to enhance youth health and well-being.
- The Translational Health in Nutrition and Kinesiology (THINK) program was developed to address physical, psychological, and educational aspects of youth development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the THINK program in improving personal health and lifestyle behaviors among adolescents.
- To assess the impact of a comprehensive, in-school curriculum on youth well-being.
Main Methods:
- 81 adolescents (ages 12.50 ± 0.62) were assessed over three academic years (2019, 2021, 2023).
- Evaluations included physical literacy measures (PAES, PAPS), nutrition and exercise knowledge tests, social-emotional learning surveys, and physical assessments (body composition, fitness).
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in body composition (% body fat decreased, lean body mass increased; p < 0.001).
- Physical fitness components (muscular strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, power, flexibility) and physical literacy measures (PAES, PAPS, knowledge) showed significant improvements (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- An integrated, in-school curriculum focusing on the whole child can effectively improve adolescent body composition, physical fitness, and physical literacy.
- The THINK program demonstrates a successful model for enhancing multiple dimensions of youth health and well-being.
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