PHYSICAL EXERCISE AS A PRACTICE FOR PROMOTING HEALTH

Abstract

Physical inactivity is a risk factor associated with the prevalence of chronic diseases, obesity, psychological disorders, and a decline in well-being in children and adolescents (Oliveira et al., 2017). This project aimed to raise awareness among young people about the importance of physical exercise for physical and mental health, articulating concepts from Positive Psychology and educational actions. The workshop, conducted as action research, involved 25 students aged 10 to 19 from FUNDEC in Duque de Caxias with sports activities and discussion groups (lecture and informational material). The results showed increased awareness of active habits through engagement in physical activities and contributed to the development of interpersonal skills (cooperation, respect, and teamwork), as evidenced by the participation of all participants in the activities. It is concluded that the workshop intervention was effective in preventing future illnesses and strengthened psychosocial well-being, aligning with SDG 11 of the 2030 Agenda.