Resistance training as a pedagogical strategy in physical education: effects on adolescents' health and lifestyle.

OBJECTIVES: Sedentary behavior constitutes a major public health problem, especially during adolescence, a stage in which it is associated with a higher risk of developing chronic diseases and a decline in quality of life. In this context, schools, and particularly Physical Education classes, play a fundamental role in health promotion. Among possible intervention strategies, resistance training stands out as a promising alternative. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a resistance training program implemented in Physical Education classes on sedentary behavior, health-related physical fitness, lifestyle, and personal satisfaction among adolescents. METHODS: This mixed-methods study employed a pre- and post-intervention design and was conducted with 86 students (15.32 ± 1.12 years). Participants underwent a 12-week resistance training intervention consisting of two weekly sessions. RESULTS: Following the 12-week intervention, quantitative results showed a reduction in sedentary behavior, maintenance of body fat percentage, a decrease in waist circumference, and significant improvements in physical fitness. Complementarily, qualitative data revealed positive student perceptions, including increased personal satisfaction and favorable changes in lifestyle. CONCLUSIONS: Resistance training, when systematically integrated into Physical Education classes, can constitute an effective pedagogical strategy for health promotion and the reduction of sedentary behavior among adolescents.