Analysis of the promoting actions of physical activity developed by valencian public universities

Abstract

Background: the Valencian Network of Healthy Public Universities (RVUPS) is part of the healthy environments of the World Health Organization (WHO). The aim of the network is to achieve healthier universities through different lines of action, emphasizing the promotion of physical activity and sports. Aim: the purpose of this study was to analyze and review the activities developed by the RVUPS on the promotion of FA and to assess, through key informants, the need to implement an AF service within the university context. Methods: on the one hand, an analysis and review of the activities and services developed to promote FA and sports that are included in the “Healthy University” section of each of the universities that make up the RVUPS (n = 5) was carried out. In addition, a qualitative study was developed interviewing key informants from the University of Alicante (n = 16), with the aim to know their perception about the utility of implementing a physical activity service within the university context. Results: currently, Valencian universities do not cover all the needs to achieve an adequate well-being state. In response, some universities from RVUPS offer individualized activities to prevent and treat some of the chronic pathologies that currently have a highest incidence in population. In addition, new services are being implemented, which integrate all health professionals in order to achieve a more comprehensive service to their population. The qualitative study revealed that interviewees also perceive such needs and, therefore, support these initiatives, considering that a physical activity and nutrition service would be an interesting option for implementation into universities. Conclusion: it is necessary to strengthen the promotion of the practice of physical activity within university population, through healthy breaks, and also with the implementation of a back pain prevention and rehabilitation service. The integration of physical activity and nutrition services could affect the improvement of the health of the university population, and would increase the physical practice, carrying out an assessment of physical fitness and a proper prescription of exercise, according to the personal health conditions of each member of the university population.