Date of Award

2002

Document Type

Master Thesis

Degree Name

Masters of Science (Research)

Department

Health and Leisure Studies

First Advisor

Ms. Teresa Richardson

Second Advisor

Dr. Alan Ringland

Abstract

Physical activity levels decline dramatically during adolescence, particularly among adolescent girls. Data is lacking on ways to tailor physical activity interventions to the needs and interests of young girls to prevent this rapid decline. This study aimed to design and implement a physical activity intervention program aimed at promoting increased participation in physical activity among adolescent girls.

Forty-five transition year female students (mean age 15.65yrs) from two girls secondary schools participated in this study. Schools were assigned to intervention and control conditions. All students participated in focus groups, two questionnaires were utilised in the study and a random sample of students were asked to wear heart rate monitors. Students in the intervention group participated in an eight-week physical activity intervention program.

Post intervention students in the intervention group were spending 21 mins less in light intensity activity, an additional 12mins in moderate activity and more time with heart rates above 120bpm. Students in the control group were spending more time (l0mins) in light activity, 15mins less in moderate activity and less time with heart rates within the target zone. These results however were not found to be statistically significant. Seventy-eight percent of the intervention group progressed at least one stage along the stage of change continuum (p

Access Level

info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

Download

Share

COinS