Developing a National Network of Physical Activity Promotion: The Case of Germany

Abstract

PURPOSE: Physical activity supports the health of human beings of every age group in various ways. However, the worldwide prevalence of physical inactivity is high and many people do not reach the amount of physical activity that is recommended by physical activity guidelines. National Action Plans (NAPS) and Initiatives try to counteract this situation but have not always been successful. To support targeted measures in such NAPs, it is necessary to gain knowledge of relevant actors, professionals groups and multiplicators as well as their structural connection. In Germany, an explorative study addressed 2 goals accordingly: (1) the identification of relevant actors, professional groups and multiplicators of physical activity promotion, and (2) the analysis of structural relations among these actors as well as the formulation of recommendations for the sustainable development of a national network of physical activity promotion. METHODS: Qualitative expert interviews, a subsequent network visualization and an analysis for network development were carried out. RESULTS: It became apparent that the field of actors in the area of physical activity promotion is very heterogeneous and extensive with regard to different forms of actors, sectors of society and administrative levels. Overall, 128 actors were identified, of which 22 actors are considered to hold key positions. Concerning the multiplicators, 19 current and 17 potential ones were identified. Structural relations among actors are sparse. CONCLUSIONS: For carrying out a network development of physical activity promotion, various prerequisites, benefits, and barriers were revealed. Subsequently, recommendations that contribute to the development and effective governance are presented. The study provides a first detailed consideration of the structure of physical activity promotion in Germany and thereby offers a perspective, which can also inform NAPS around the globe.