Effect of Wellness Education on Students’ Physical Activity and Quality of Life in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Randomized Controlled Study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background COVID-19 restrictions have increased physical inactivity and resulted in poor quality of life. Intervention to support children’s physical activity and quality of life during the pandemic are limited. Purpose This study aims to determine the effect of wellness education on the quality of life and physical activities of students related the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Fifth-grade students (N = 176) from two middle schools were randomly assigned to an intervention group receiving wellness education or control group. Four weeks after students ended wellness education, follow-up data were collected. Results A statistically significant increase was observed in the physical activity and quality of life score of the intervention group compared to the control group after wellness education, and there was a significant reduction in negative emotions. Discussion The results show that the intervention significantly improved students’ physical activity, quality of life compared to the control group. Future research should consider including parents involvement in the intervention with a longer intervention period. Translation to Health Education Practice: Wellness education is a effective way to promoting physical activity and improving the quality of life of students. This study informs future research to design an effective framework for protecting and promoting the health of students.