Perspectives of Rural High School Students Involved in a Multi-Component, After-School Physical Activity Intervention

Abstract

After-school physical activity interventions can assist high school students in meeting physical activity recommendations; however, little is known about what kinds of programs work best for students in rural settings. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore rural high school students’ perceptions of a multi-component, after-school physical activity intervention. Interviews were conducted with 10 students who had participated in a physical activity intervention. Thematic analysis was conducted on the interviews. Participants indicated that the intervention provided a supportive and motivating environment through the use of innovative technology and peer relatedness/involvement. Although barriers such as time constraints often prevented them from achieving their weekly goals, students expressed overall satisfaction with the intervention and a heightened self-motivation for physical activity. The qualitative approach provides a greater understanding of the perspectives of rural adolescents participating in a physical activity intervention. Findings can be useful to school nurses and inform the development of future physical activity interventions.