NCJ Number
189427
Journal
Journal of Drug Education Volume: 30 Issue: 4 Dated: 2000 Pages: 435-451
Date Published
2000
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This paper presents program-evaluation data from school and community applications of a physical fitness drug prevention program.
Abstract
A train-the-trainer methodology was used to install the program in 22 settings within Illinois. The physical training program consisted of exercise and educational modules delivered over a 12-week period; they focused on instructing learning values and life skills through exercise. Complete pre-post data were obtained on 329 participating youth at 6 school and community-based sites. Significant increases were demonstrated in physical activity and physical fitness (cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility). Youth self-reported data showed significant decreases in risk factors such as low self-concept, poor school attendance, anxiety, depression, and number of friends who used alcohol and drugs. There were significant reductions in the percentage of youth who used cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and alcohol. Increased physical fitness thus led to lowered risk factors and drug-use patterns. Also, the train-the-trainer model proved to be an effective installation approach for expanding fitness programming within drug-prevention settings. 6 tables and 14 references