Promotion of healthy lifestyles in active Spanish schools: a cross-sectional analysis of participation, barriers, and educational stages across school levels
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v80.118661Keywords:
Active schools, barriers, educational stages, healthy lifestyles, physical activity promotion, Physical Education, school-based interventionsAbstract
Introduction: Active lifestyle habits are essential for children’s and adolescents’ well-being, particularly in the context of increasing sedentary behavior. Although physical education is compulsory in schools, complementary school-based initiatives play a key role in promoting regular physical activity and healthy habits.
Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the promotion of active and healthy lifestyles in Spanish schools across different educational stages and to identify factors associated with participation in physical activity promotion initiatives.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 273 Spanish schools that participated in a national event promoting active lifestyles during 2024. Descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression, and multiple correspondence analysis were performed to examine participation levels, use of public spaces, and perceived barriers.
Results: Early Childhood and Primary Education schools showed significantly higher participation levels in active lifestyle initiatives compared with Secondary and post-Compulsory Education centers. Limited resources and logistical difficulties were the most frequently reported barriers across educational stages.
Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of strengthening school-based strategies to promote active lifestyles and suggest that educational stage should be considered a key factor when designing initiatives aimed at increasing physical activity within and beyond the school context.
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