Comprehensive School Physical Activity Programs in Middle Schools

Abstract

Physical activity declines among children in their tweens and teens. To address physical inactivity as a health risk, national organizations are endorsing the implementation of comprehensive school physical activity programs (CSPAPs). The purpose of this article is to describe the history of school-coordinated approaches to addressing health issues and to provide steps for implementing CSPAPs in middle-school settings. The current need, theoretical-based rationale, how-to steps, and strategies for overcoming barriers are included. The article also includes sample artifacts from effective middle school CSPAPs and identifies multiple resources for CSPAP implementation.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Zack Beddoes

Zack Beddoes is a graduate student in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, and Darla M. Castelli ([email protected]) is a professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, at the University of Texas at Austin in Austin, TX.