Effects of Sport Participation on the Lifestyle of Secondary School Adolescents in Uyo Metropolis

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of sports participation on the lifestyle of secondary school adolescents in Uyo Metropolis. Guided by three research questions, the study focuses on the impact of sports participation on the physical health, social behaviors, peer relationships, academic performance, and discipline of adolescents. The target population comprises all secondary school students in Uyo Metropolis, with a sample size of 200 respondents selected through a stratified random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used as the primary data collection instrument, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, and percentages).Findings reveal a significant positive effect of sports participation on the physical health of adolescents, as it enhances physical fitness and reduces the risk of obesity. Additionally, sports participation improves social behaviors, peer relationships, teamwork, and leadership skills while positively influencing academic discipline and performance. However, barriers such as lack of facilities, gender disparities, and societal attitudes were identified as hindrances to effective sports participation. The study concludes that sports participation is vital for holistic adolescent development, recommending schools and policymakers create an enabling environment that encourages more students to engage in sports. Further research is suggested to explore the long-term impact of specific sports and address gender-specific participation barriers.