Encouragement of health-promoting intervention studies in college physical education

Abstract

The purpose of this review was to describe the significance and the necessity of health−promoting intervention studies in college physical education (P.E.), and to motivate Japanese college physical educators about educational research. Firstly, the educational significance of health−promoting intervention studies in college P.E. was pointed out. College P.E. as an opportunity for health promotion and communicating with others is likely to contribute to both “academic adaptation” and “social integration” for freshmen. However, these educational effects have not been confirmed yet. Secondly, health promotional significance of intervention studies in college P.E. was pointed out. Prevalence of physical inactivity and increased enrollment in higher education today in Japan have strengthened the public−health role of college P.E. Thirdly, academic significance of health−promoting intervention studies in college P.E. was pointed out. Health−behavior intervention studies, especially for the enhancement of physical activity, are now in the first step, although there needs to be more research in this area. Thereafter, we described the following; research results about lifestyle and health status for college students, the relationship between health promotion and school P.E. in Japan, the history of college P.E. in Japan and its present trend, modifications of the U.S. school P.E., and the trend of health promotion by means of behavioral sciences. Finally, the following four aspects were described as future areas of health promotion research for college students; 1) to show the learning outcomes of college P.E. concretely, 2) to do intervention studies based on theory and evidence, 3) to design a study that is able to be evaluated scientifically, 4) to do intervention studies for college students' health promotion, especially in physical activity enhancement.