Energy balance education in schools

Abstract

Obesity prevention and control have been identified as top public health priorities in modern societies. Sport and exercise science researchers from multiple perspectives (e.g. behavioral, pedagogical, psychological, and physiological) have been active contributors addressing this topic. This paper examines the importance of energy balance (EB) knowledge in enabling behaviors associated with weight management in youth (e.g. physical activity and dietary behaviors). Relevant research studies were searched using ERIC, Proquest, PubMed, and Scopus. A total of 48 articles that met the inclusion criteria were identified and retrieved. The research findings of the included articles were summarized after being thoroughly reviewed. The paper reveals mixed findings about the association between EB knowledge and behaviors, reinforcing the importance of developing knowledge through education. The literature review further identifies that there is inadequate knowledge about EB among youth, coinciding with a national call for action to enhance EB education in schools. The knowledge inadequacy is related to two plausible reasons: the science of EB is still evolving and systematic EB education is lacking in schools. In addition, while some school-based EB education programmes are available, many of these programmes are expensive and lack generalizability and sustainability over time. The paper concludes with a proposal to enhance EB education using concept-based physical education.