Physical Activity in Norwegian Secondary Schools
Author Information
Author(s): Haug Ellen, Torsheim Torbjørn, Samdal Oddrun
Primary Institution: Research Centre for Health Promotion, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen
Hypothesis
How do physical environmental characteristics and individual interests correlate with physical activity in Norwegian secondary schools?
Conclusion
The study found that both the physical environment and students' interests significantly influence participation in physical activity during recess.
Supporting Evidence
- Students in schools with more facilities were 4.49 times more likely to be physically active during recess.
- Open fields and outdoor obstacle courses were associated with increased physical activity.
- Students' interests in physical activity significantly predicted their participation during recess.
Takeaway
If schools have more fun places to play and kids are interested in being active, they are more likely to play outside during breaks.
Methodology
This cross-sectional study used questionnaires completed by students and school principals in a national representative sample of Norwegian secondary schools.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reporting and the interpretation of environmental characteristics by school principals.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data for physical activity and environmental characteristics, which may introduce bias.
Participant Demographics
52.3% boys and 47.7% girls, with a majority from high socio-economic status backgrounds.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 1.93–10.44
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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