Mary Hassandra

Promoting sustainable active mobility requires a better understanding of the psychological factors associated with environmentally responsible physical activity (PA) behaviors among young people. This study examined the associations among love and care for nature, the satisfaction of basic psychological needs in energy-saving contexts, and sustainable energy-related PA behaviors, as well as differences by gender and school grade. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 1230 students aged 9–16. Participants completed validated questionnaires during physical education classes. Correlation analyses revealed low-to-moderate positive associations among love and care for nature, basic psychological needs related to energy saving, and sustainable energy-related PA behaviors. Hierarchical regression analyses with bootstrapping identified school grade, love and care for nature, and perceived competence in energy saving as variables independently associated with these behaviors. Multilevel linear mixed-effects analyses further indicated that love and care for nature and perceived competence remained significantly associated with sustainable energy-related PA behaviors after adjustment for gender and age. Gender differences were observed in love and care for nature and autonomy related to energy saving, while school-grade differences emerged across all environmental variables examined. These findings highlight the relevance of young people’s connection with nature and perceived competence in energy saving for understanding sustainable energy-related PA behaviors. Although the cross-sectional design precludes causal conclusions, the findings may inform future research and the development and evaluation of physical education and school-based sustainability initiatives. Such initiatives could explore ways to promote environmentally responsible physical activity and contribute to sustainable mobility and healthier, more sustainable communities.

Background Climate change directly and indirectly threatens human health, especially among young people, who will face its most severe consequences. Within the planetary health framework, behaviors such as physical activity and sustainable eating are protective lifestyle factors, while love and care for nature supports pro-environmental engagement and psychological resilience. Yet how these interrelate in youth remains unclear. Methods A sample of 1,230 students aged 9–16 completed validated measures of physical activity frequency (PACE+), sustainable eating (SHED Index subscale), and love and care for nature (Perkins scale). Using Hayes' PROCESS macro (Model 4), we tested a mediation model. Results Physical activity positively predicted sustainable eating, which in turn predicted love and care for nature, partially mediating the activity–nature association (significant indirect effect; 10,000 bias-corrected bootstraps). Discussion Sustainable eating thus appears a key pathway linking youth physical activity with care for nature, underscoring the value of integrated planetary health interventions targeting multiple behaviors to strengthen both health and pro-climate engagement.

Exercise plays a key role in managing type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), and virtual reality (VR)-based exercise offers an innovative solution to increase motivation and deliver meaningful health benefits to patients who are often hesitant to engage in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to assess the acceptability, usability, intention for future use, and preference of a VR-based cycling application, as well as to investigate the effects of VR-based exercise on the physiological, biochemical, and psychological parameters of individuals with T1DM compared to conventional exercise. This study represents a preliminary investigation with a small sample size of 11 patients with T1DM. Each participant underwent two 20 min low-intensity exercise trials. One session involved conventional cycling on a stationary ergometer, while the other used a VR-based cycling application. The two exercise conditions were conducted 48 h apart, without a formal washout period. According to the results, high scores were observed for preference, acceptance, and usability of the VR-based cycling application, and statistically significant improvements in mood and enjoyment were observed following the VR-based cycling compared to conventional cycling. Additionally, while no statistically significant differences were found in physiological parameters (blood glucose, blood pressure, and heart rate) between the two conditions, the VR-based session showed a trend toward greater reductions. In conclusion, the use of VR technology in the field of cycling exercise has great significance in improving the mood and engagement of T1DM patients in exercise programs, providing a user-friendly and well-accepted VR cycling application; subsequently, it has also shown preliminary potential for the regulation of biological parameters. Healthcare professionals could easily expand exercise protocols with the strengths of the VR technologies along with other health-related programs.

Exercise plays a key role in managing Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM). Virtual Reality-based exercise offers an innovative solution to enhance motivation and deliver meaningful health ben-efits for patients often hesitant to engage in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of VR-based exercise on biological and psychological parameters of indi-viduals with T1DM compared to traditional exercise, as well as to evaluate their acceptance, in-tention for future use, usability, and preference. In or study, 11 patients with T1DM participated, who underwent two exercise trials. The first was cycling in a cycle ergometer and the second VR-based cycling. A greater reduction in blood glucose was observed after VR-based trial, com-pared with typical cycling. Moreover, there were statistically significant improvements in mood following the VR-based trial, as well as increased interest/enjoyment compared to typical cycling. Additionally, high scores were observed for preference, acceptance, and usability of the VR ex-ercise system. In conclusion, VR-based exercise can enhance mood and increase inter-est/enjoyment of T1DM patients compared to traditional cycling, although no differences were observed in biological parameters such as blood glucose, blood pressure, and heart rate. More-over, the system proved to be user-friendly and well-accepted by these patients without any contraindications.

Background: The role of exercise programs during substance use disorder (SUD) treatment is considered particularly supportive in fostering positive psychological and behavioral changes. The treatment of SUD is a challenging and demanding process. Therefore, it is crucial to discover innovative methods to enhance and facilitate it. Integrating exercise into a virtual environment is an innovative approach for drug rehabilitation, offering multiple benefits to individuals undergoing treatment. The aim of this feasibility study was to explore the acute effects of cycling exercise in an immersive virtual reality (VR) environment on attentional control and self-efficacy expectations of individuals undergoing SUD treatment. Methods: A total of 20 individuals (mean age of 37.75 years) enrolled in a SUD treatment program participated in the study. They were instructed to complete a single session of cycling with a self-selected duration within the VR system. Results: Following the cycling session, pre-post measures indicated a statistically significant improvement in self-efficacy expectations and attentional control measured with the Stroop test. The results revealed that participants expressed high levels of intention for future use, interest/enjoyment, and positive attitudes toward the VR exercise system. Qualitative data indicated that participants found the VR exercise system enjoyable, expressed a strong intention to use it, and did not encounter technical difficulties or negative emotions. Conclusions: In conclusion, it seems that engaging in a brief period of self-selected exercise within a virtual environment can result in temporary activation of cognitive changes, heightened self-efficacy expectations, and a motivating approach to increasing physical activity participation among individuals with SUD, thus suggesting the feasibility of this approach.

Background. The role of exercise programs during Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment is considered particularly supportive in fostering positive psychological and behavioral changes. The aim of this feasibility study was to explore the acute effects of cycling exercise in an immersive virtual reality (IVR) environment on attentional control and self-efficacy expectations of indi-viduals undergoing SUD treatment. Methods. A total of 20 individuals (mean age of 37.75 years) enrolled in a SUD treatment program participated in the study. They were instructed to complete a single session of cycling with a self-selected duration within the IVR system. Results. Following the cycling session, pre-post measures indicated a statistically significant im-provement in self-efficacy expectations and attentional control measured with the Stroop test. The results revealed that participants expressed high levels of intention for future use, inter-est/enjoyment, and positive attitudes toward the IVR exercise system. Qualitative data indicated that participants found the IVR exercise system enjoyable, expressed a strong intention to use it, and did not encounter technical difficulties or negative emotions. Conclusions: In conclusion, it seems that engaging in a brief period of self-selected exercise within a virtual environment can result in temporary activation of cognitive changes, heightened self-efficacy expectations, and a motivating approach to increasing physical activity participation among individuals with SUD, thus suggesting the feasibility of this approach.

This paper explores the diverse impact of the Olympic Movement on society, emphasizing core values like ‘excellence’, ‘friendship’, and ‘respect’. Traditionally, the Olympic Movement actively promotes global sport through initiatives such as Olympic education programs, instilling moral dimensions, cultural values, and essential life skills. Recent Olympic Games are scrutinized for their organizers’ focus on safety, pandemic management, environmental sustainability, and gender equality. This paper addresses crucial policy options, spanning human rights, social inclusion through sport, and the pervasive issue of inactivity affecting public health. Noteworthy successes in leveraging sports for refugees and combating substance use disorders are discussed, alongside joint efforts by the World Health Organization and the International Olympic Committee, to combat inactivity and promote health through sports. Exploration of gender equality in the Olympic Movement recognizes challenges and suggests actions, including increasing female participation and addressing sexual harassment. The intersection of sports, climate change, and environmental responsibility is examined, with a focus on the ambitious ‘climate-positive’ goals of the Paris 2024 Olympics. However, since most of the IOC actions are rather symbolic and not substantial, many organizations are called upon to take active initiatives. Actionable recommendations urge countries to prioritize physical activity policies, organize exercise programs, and collaborate across sectors for health and environmental sustainability. The Olympic Games should focus on promoting mass sports participation, fostering positive attitudes, enhancing public health through sports, education, peace, and societal values, advocating for a holistic approach that champions ethical values, and promoting Olympic education to build a better world through sports.

The global issue of substance abuse demands ongoing initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. With drug use remaining prevalent worldwide, interventions are critical to addressing the associated health challenges and societal implications. Exercise and physical activities have emerged as integral components of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, offering promising avenues for prevention, intervention, and recovery. Recent research underscores the efficacy of exercise in reducing substance cravings, promoting abstinence, and improving overall well-being. However, integrating exercise into SUD recovery programs presents challenges such as dropout rates and cultural considerations. This paper synthesizes existing literature on exercise integration into SUD recovery, highlighting strategies for enhancing treatment outcomes and addressing barriers to exercise adherence. Drawing on cognitive–behavioral therapy, experiential learning, motivational interviewing, and goal-setting techniques, the holistic approach outlined in this paper aims to empower individuals both mentally and physically, fostering resilience and supporting long-term recovery. In conclusion, new initiatives need to be taken by advocating for inclusive policies, promoting community engagement, and fostering collaborations across sectors. By doing so, stakeholders can optimize the effectiveness of exercise programs and contribute to sustainable rehabilitation efforts for individuals with SUD.

In this follow-up study, we aimed to assess the effectiveness of the “I do not smoke, I exercise” anti-smoking preventive health education program. The program was based on the theory of planned behavior supplemented with life skills teaching and targeted at high school students. The intervention comprised ten one-hour online sessions, administered by physical education instructors. The study cohort comprised 222 students (109 boys, 113 girls) from 11 secondary schools, with an average age of 16.42 ± 1.36 years. Data collection involved pre- and post-intervention self-assessment questionnaires. The examined variables included attitudes towards smoking, intention to smoke, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control (PBC), knowledge about smoking, smoking behavior, exercise behavior, attitudes toward the program’s implementation, and satisfaction with the program. A separate paired samples t-test revealed a significant improvement in students’ knowledge about smoking (t₂₁₇ = −5.605, p < 0.001, d = 0.38) and perceived behavioral control (t₂₂₀ = −2.166, p < 0.05, d = 0.15) following the intervention. However, no significant changes were observed in the remaining variables. In addition, students’ overall satisfaction with the implementation of the present health education program was high (M = 5.72 ± 1.39). These findings suggest that the health education smoking prevention intervention incorporates techniques and strategies that influence the perceived behavioral control variable, emphasizing students’ strong interest in educationally theorized programs integrating technology into their design. Future studies should consider further examination of tobacco control strategies within the high school context.

Background: Low levels of physical activity are associated with numerous adverse health outcomes, yet sedentary lifestyles are common among both children and adults. Physical activity levels tend to decline steeply among children aged between 8 and 12 years, even though children’s behavioral patterns are largely governed by familial structures. Similarly, parents’ activity levels have been generally reported as lower than those of nonparents of comparable age. For this reason, family-based physical activity promotion interventions are a potentially valuable and relatively underresearched method for mitigating physical activity declines as children develop into adolescents and for increasing physical activity in parents. Objective: This study aims to assess the efficacy, feasibility, and acceptability of a novel theory-based web-based physical activity promotion intervention among parent-child dyads in Finland who do not meet physical activity recommendations at baseline. Methods: Participants (target N=254) will be recruited from the general population using a panel company and advertisements on social media and randomly assigned to either an immediate intervention group or a waitlist control group. The intervention consists of 4 web-based group workshops over the course of 10 weeks, web-based tasks and resources, and a social support chat group. Data on physical activity behavior and constructs from the integrated behavior change model will be collected through self-report surveys assessing physical activity, autonomy support, autonomous motivation, attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, intention, self-monitoring, habit, and accelerometer measurements at baseline, post intervention, and 3 months post intervention. Exit interviews with participants will assess the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention procedures. Results: This study will reveal whether the intervention changes leisure-time physical activity among intervention participants relative to the control group and will examine the intervention’s effects on important theoretical predictors of physical activity. It will also yield data that can be used to refine intervention materials and inform further implementation. Trial recruitment commenced in September 2023, and data collection should be completed by December 2024. Conclusions: The planned intervention has potential implications for both theory and practice. Practically, the use of an entirely web-based intervention may have scalable future uses for improving physical activity in 2 key populations, while also potentially informing on the value of dyadic, family-based strategies for encouraging an active lifestyle as an alternative to strategies that target either parents or children independently. Further, by assessing change in psychological constructs alongside potential change in behavior, the intervention also allows for important tests of theory regarding which constructs are most linked to favorable behavior change outcomes. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06070038; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06070038 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/55960