Motivational variables and their relationship with health determinants in physical education students

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the relationship between basic psychological needs, motivation, and health-related behaviors in students aged between 11 and 16 years. The sample consists of 561 students with an average age of 13.6 years (267 boys and 294 girls), 147 participants from 5th and 6th grade of Primary Education and 414 participants from 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th grade of Secondary Education. The study is based on the Self-Determination Theory, the design is cross-sectional, and the variables under study are as follows: physical activity, sedentary behaviors, nutrition, socio-economic status, teacher support of basic psychological needs, motivation towards physical education, and intention to be physically active. The results show that the highest values in the variable of socioeconomic status, as well as in the variable of adherence to the Mediterranean diet, correspond to higher values in the variable of out-ofschool physical activity practice. Furthermore, the physical education teacher´s support of competence and autonomy needs positively influences intrinsic motivation and the intention to be physically active in the future, which, in turn, favors the practice of out-of-school physical activity and reduces levels of sedentary time. In conclusion, it is suggested that school physical education programs should not only promote physical activity but also support students´ needs for competence and autonomy. Additionally, encouraging adherence to the Mediterranean diet and considering the students´ socioeconomic context can increase out-of-school physical activity. These strategies could help reduce sedentary levels among young people.