Promoting physical activity in youth: Focus on middle school environments

The sharp decline in physical activity during adolescence is a national con cern. However, few studies of adherence to exercise and physical activity h ave been conducted with youths. This paper focuses on ecological approaches for promoting physical activity in middle schools. Baseline data collected in physical education classes, leisure time settings, and structured extra curricular programs during the four-year Middle School Physical Activity an d Nutrition (M-SPAN) project are reviewed. Refocusing physical education go als, promoting gender equity in physical activity opportunities, and linkin g schools with community agencies are recommended as means for promoting ph ysical activity among adolescents.