School-Based Physical Activity Programmes: An Integrative Review of Health-Related Research

Abstract

A widespread lack of healthy habits is a paramount concern to all, and schools, especially through physical education, can be an important setting to promote physical activity and healthier habits among young people. An integrative review was conducted between 2010 and 2023, exploring physical activity programmes in schools and to discuss strategies to elevate students’ physical activity levels and habits for a lifetime of autonomous wellbeing. The results included 42 articles: eight reviews completed on related research, 12 studies focused on school-based physical activity intervention programmes, and 22 dedicated to the relationship between physical activity, physical education and health. Recommendations include prioritizing longitudinal research, enhancing student-teacher relationship and collaboration, increasing the level of interest in physical education and the participation in enjoyable activities, developing young people’s knowledge, and addressing contextual factors affecting physical activity.