Physical Activity in Türkiye: Health Impacts and Policy Recommendations
Keywords:
Physical activity, Public health, Behavior change, Intervention strategies, Health policyAbstract
This study aims to investigate the health impacts of physical activity and assess policy and practice suggestions for enhancing physical activity levels in Türkiye through a comprehensive approach. The study was conducted by analysing existing national and international research while also considering theoretical models and public health intervention strategies from a comprehensive viewpoint. The evaluation process utilised behavioural change theories, including the Health Belief Model, Planned Behaviour Theory, Social Cognitive Theory, and the Transtheoretical Model. The results demonstrate that physical activity levels in Türkiye fall short of suggested thresholds, with a notable deficiency among women and older demographics. The research underscores the necessity of formulating comprehensive intervention techniques to enhance physical activity across individual, community, and societal dimensions. It is advisable to enhance national initiatives, bolster local government support for sports infrastructure, improve physical education classes in educational institutions, and urge companies to foster a culture of active living. Thus, formulating theoretically grounded, sustainable, and implementable policies is essential for enhancing physical activity levels in society and advancing public health
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