Beyond the gym: students' preferences for physical activities in nature
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v73.117314Keywords:
outdoor physical activity, physical education, rural-urban school, student motivationAbstract
Introduction: The integration of outdoor physical activities into physical education classes has gained importance due to its contribution to student well-being and its connection with the natural environment.
Objective: This study aims to analyze the preferences of students in the Los Lagos Region of Chile regarding physical activities in nature, taking into account differences based on urban or rural settings, as well as perceived benefits.
Methodology: This is a quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, and descriptive study. A total of 120 elementary and high school students from four public schools participated. A validated questionnaire consisting of 31 items across four dimensions was administered, along with six additional questions related to interest in specific extracurricular workshops, evaluated using a Likert scale. Non-parametric tests and effect size analyses were applied.
Results: Findings indicate a generally positive attitude toward outdoor physical activities, with average scores exceeding 75% of the scale's maximum value. The most highly rated activities were trekking, kayaking, and rafting. The Mann-Whitney U test revealed statistically significant differences in favor of urban students in the dimensions of willingness, perceived benefits, and overall questionnaire scores.
Discussion: These results are consistent with prior studies highlighting the physical and emotional benefits of contact with nature. Geographic context appeared to influence students’ attitudes and perceptions.
Conclusion: Integrating nature-based physical activities into school settings enhances student well-being, enriches the educational experience, fosters early environmental awareness, and promotes a positive attitude toward physical activity in natural environments.
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