Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Department of Physical Education, Farhangian University, P.O. Box 14665-889, Tehran, Iran
2
Department of Motor Behavior and Sport Management, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
3
Department of Physical Education, Ro.C., Islamic Azad University, Roudehen, Iran.
4
Department of Physical Education, Islamshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr, Iran
5
Department of Physical Education, ،Ta.C., Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
Abstract
Extended Abstract
Background and Purpose
Adolescents' engagement in health-oriented physical activity (HPA) is widely recognized as a crucial determinant of physical and psychological well-being. Despite the World Health Organization's recommendation of at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day, evidence suggests that participation levels among adolescents remain inadequate, particularly in developing countries. In Iran, and specifically in Golestan Province, studies have indicated low adherence to such guidelines, raising concerns about long-term health and social consequences. In addition, gender disparities remain pronounced, with girls typically reporting lower participation rates than boys. These trends highlight the urgent need to explore contextual factors, barriers, and facilitators that shape adolescents' physical activity behaviors. Accordingly, this study aimed not only to assess the current status of health-oriented physical activity among adolescents in Golestan but also to design a conceptual framework that can guide policymakers, educators, and community leaders in fostering sustainable and equitable participation in health-promoting physical activities.
Methods
This study employed a mixed-method design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive understanding of adolescent participation in health-oriented physical activity. The quantitative phase included a sample of 384 adolescents (192 boys and 192 girls) aged 14–17 years, selected through convenient sampling from six cities within Golestan Province. Data were collected using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-short form), which measures the frequency, duration, and intensity of physical activity across daily routines, transportation, and leisure-time activities. Standardized procedures were applied to calculate metabolic equivalent (MET) scores and categorize participants into low, moderate, and vigorous physical activity groups. Reliability and validity of the IPAQ were confirmed through previous research, including studies conducted in Iran.
For the qualitative phase, a grounded theory approach was applied, using Glaser's data-driven methodology. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 experts, including academics and practitioners specializing in adolescent physical activity, sports management, and health promotion. The interview protocol focused on perceptions of current participation levels, barriers and facilitators, and potential strategies for promoting engagement. Interviews lasted approximately 40 minutes, were audio-recorded with consent, and were transcribed verbatim. Open, axial, and selective coding processes were applied to identify core categories and develop a conceptual model. Triangulation was ensured by involving multiple coders, reviewing findings with participants, and using diverse data sources. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and t-tests were used to analyze quantitative data, while qualitative findings were synthesized into a theoretical framework. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants and their guardians.
Results
Quantitative findings revealed a concerningly low level of adolescent participation in health-oriented physical activities. Overall, only 43.5% of adolescents met minimum thresholds for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Among boys, 53% reported sufficient participation, while only 40% of girls achieved comparable levels, confirming a significant gender gap. Further analysis showed that 15.5% of adolescents engaged in vigorous activity, 28% in moderate activity, and 56.5% reported primarily low-intensity or sedentary patterns. These results not only reflect insufficient adherence to WHO guidelines but also demonstrate gender-based disparities in participation. Boys were more likely to engage in both vigorous and moderate activities, whereas girls were disproportionately represented in the low-activity group.
Qualitative findings expanded these insights by identifying a variety of influential factors. Individual-level determinants included motivation, awareness, and the prevalence of sedentary entertainment such as screen time and electronic devices. Social and cultural factors encompassed family attitudes, societal norms—particularly restrictions affecting girls—and peer influences. Structural and environmental barriers included limited availability of safe and accessible public spaces, inadequate sports facilities, especially for girls, and unfavorable urban design. Managerial and policy-level issues were also highlighted, such as insufficient attention to recreational physical activity in schools, a focus on elite sports over mass participation, and fragmented responsibilities among governmental agencies.
Conversely, several facilitators were identified. Green spaces, parks, and favorable natural environments were perceived as encouraging factors. Effective municipal planning, supportive policies, and community-driven initiatives were seen as essential enablers. Proposed solutions included policy reform to prioritize health-oriented activity, provision of subsidies for sports participation, targeted cultural campaigns to promote physical activity among girls, and expanded collaboration between schools, municipalities, and media outlets. Importantly, experts stressed that financial incentives and infrastructural development must be integrated with cultural and educational strategies to achieve sustainable improvements. Anticipated outcomes of implementing these measures include reduced health care costs, improved physical and mental health among adolescents, enhanced social cohesion, and increased public satisfaction with government policies. Overall, the study produced a conceptual model linking causal factors, intervening barriers, strategic pathways, and expected outcomes for the development of adolescent participation in health-oriented physical activity.
Conclusion
This study underscores the critical challenge posed by low levels of adolescent participation in health-oriented physical activity, particularly among girls. The quantitative data confirm insufficient compliance with international recommendations, while qualitative insights reveal a complex interplay of individual, social, cultural, managerial, and structural factors shaping behaviors. The proposed model emphasizes that meaningful change requires coordinated, multi-level interventions that integrate urban planning, cultural promotion, financial support, and effective management. Schools, municipalities, and families emerge as pivotal actors in shaping healthier lifestyles. The findings highlight the urgency of reorienting policies away from a narrow focus on competitive sports and toward inclusive strategies that empower all adolescents to engage in sustainable, enjoyable physical activities. If effectively implemented, these strategies hold the potential not only to improve health outcomes but also to foster broader social benefits, including reduced health care expenditures and enhanced community well-being.
Article Message
The study highlights the urgent need to strengthen adolescents' participation in health-oriented physical activities, with particular attention to addressing gender disparities. While fewer than half of adolescents currently meet recommended activity levels, strategic interventions targeting individual motivation, cultural attitudes, managerial practices, and infrastructural support can create a transformative shift. By developing and implementing a comprehensive model, stakeholders across education, policy, health, and community sectors can collectively promote a more active lifestyle. The implications extend beyond health benefits, offering economic advantages through reduced health care costs and fostering stronger social cohesion within adolescent communities.
Ethical Considerations
Be sure to include a hyperlink Ethical code with original reference.
Authors' Contributions
Conceptualization: Sara Bagheri, Zahra Chaharbaghi
Data Collection: Roya Hosseinzadeh Peyghan, Zahra Alam
Data Analysis: Amir Dana, Zahra Alam
Manuscript Writing: Sara Bagheri, Zahra Chaharbaghi
Review and Editing: Zahra Chaharbaghi, Amir Dana
Responsible for funding: Zahra Chaharbaghi
Literature Review: Roya Hosseinzadeh Peyghan, Zahra Alam, Sara Bagheri, Zahra Chaharbaghi
Project Manager: Zahra Chaharbaghi
Conflict of Interest
None to declare.
Acknowledgments
The authors are grateful to all participants in this study.
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