Muévete conmigo (Move with me) Programme title #1

Objective(s)

Combat sedentariness and promote exercise through community engagement. Goal: 1 hour a day (or 3 hours a week minimum) being physically active.

Activities

People register a pledge to undertake 3 hours of physical activity a week over 1 month with a person in their network who they have identified as inactive, overweight or obese (but who wants to change their lifestyle) on the website Muévete Conmigo, by the University of León. In schools, teachers are the promoters who register interest for themselves and students in recruiting a physical activity “buddy”. The website facilitates planning the 3 hours of activity a week together. At the end of the programme, they submit a diary of evidence, complete a questionnaire and receive a certificate of participation.

Behavioural change model(s)

Systematising PA, every week, several times and the focus of the activity as a service to the society for young people, and as a social relationship opportunity for the seniors are the principles to highlight.

Involved stakeholder domains

University of Leon (organiser), León City Council (partner/sponsor), Community associations (sponsors), Educational institutions (participants), Senior citizens (participants)

Age groups

From schoolchildren to the elderly. Targeted at people in need of more activity, especially the elderly

Barriers

• attitudes, abilities, motivations and conduct

• Spatial distribution of services/activities

• Difficulty finding willing participants

• Sustainability and retention after the month is up.

Results / impact

The personal satisfaction of having helped somebody else be more physically active in just one month – “gifting health”.

Introduction to physical activities to sedentary people and creation of new social connections – expected increase in physical activity and reduction in loneliness.

Increase in physical and psycho-social benefits.

Other information (tips & tricks)

Close guidance from the Physical Education department (or teachers from the teaching team who want to embark on this proposal), and the motivation generated in the students to actively participate in it. The prior planning: Establish a timeline with the start and end of the proposal. Explanation of the proposal to pupils, teachers and families.