Contribution of physical education classes to daily physical activity levels of adolescents

Introduction: Although practicing physical activity according to recommendations has health benefits, many studies have reported that the level of participation is lower than recommended. Methods: In this behavioural epidemiological study, we used a correlational design to determine the contribution made by physical education (PE) classes to daily physical activity in a sample of 694 Spanish adolescents. Physical activity levels were determined using the Four by One-Day Physical Activity Questionnaire. Results: 65.1% of adolescents comply with the recommendations on PE school days, compared to 36.6% who do so on the days with no PE class. Moreover, on PE school days, they obtain significantly higher physical activity level scores compared to days with no PE class. Conclusion: The study, therefore, shows the fundamental role of PE in increasing daily physical activity levels. Proposals to improve physical activity levels in these adolescents should be put forward, with educational centres being one of the best settings to achieve this goal.