Changes in body image perception after an outdoor physical education program

Description of the problem and aims Body image is a complex construct that significantly affects people’s quality of life. Body image is related to perceptions and thoughts about one’s own body through an evaluation of size and attractiveness. This construct has been mainly treated in terms of psycho-attitudinal outcomes but there is growing evidence regarding the role of physical education on positive body image. Although there are several studies related to this topic, few researchers focused on how physical education in an outdoor setting may influence body image. This study examines changes in body image of adolescents who followed a twelve-week outdoor physical education program based on walking and running activities compared to equivalent indoor activities. Methodology Self-reported data were collected. Subjects were asked to indicate their Current Body Shape and their Ideal Body Shape by means of a Figure Rating Scale (CDRS) based on drawn silhouettes ranging from extreme thinness to severe obesity. Body Shape Questionnaire 14 (BSQ-14) was also administered to assess the overall body shape dissatisfaction. Conclusions Results showed an improvement after the intervention in body image scores(CDRS and BSQ-14) in those subjects engaged in the outdoor program compared to those who participated in indoor activities who showed a non-significant decrease of the scores. The results indicate that an outdoor physical education program may have a positive effect on how youngsters perceive their body image compared to activities carried out in an indoor traditional classroom context. Outdoor education may facilitate the process of body image perception and representation through self-acceptance and enjoyment of the activity.