Overview
The aims of this school-based cycling intervention called "ENERGY Commuting to school" (ENERGYCO) will be divided into two phases: Phase I will aim: 1) to design, test, and validate predictive equations for the objective quantification of the energy expenditure related to different modes of commuting to school (i.e., walking, cycling, motorized-vehicle); and 2) to quantify the energy expenditure of each mode of commuting to school using indirect calorimetry in adolescents; and Phase II will aim to evaluate the effect of a school-based cycling intervention on different health-related outcomes, such as energy expenditure, resting metabolic rate, basal metabolism, physical activity levels, body composition, muscle strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, blood pressure, physical literacy, motor competence, and psychosocial outcomes on Spanish adolescents.
Description
The ENERGYCO study is a cluster-randomized controlled trial focused on the energy expenditure associated with commuting to school. Phase I will aim to develop predictive equations for quantifying energy expenditure during different modes of commuting (walking, cycling, motorized-vehicle) and to measure energy expenditure using indirect calorimetry in adolescents. Phase II will assess the impact of a school-based cycling intervention on various health outcomes in Spanish adolescents, including energy expenditure, metabolic rate, physical activity levels, body composition, muscle strength, fitness, blood pressure, physical literacy, motor competence, and psychosocial outcomes. Phase I will involve recruiting approximately 50 adolescents to quantify energy expenditure during walking, cycling, and motorized-vehicle. For Phase II, a random sample of around 300 schoolchildren aged 12-16 from three Spanish cities will undergo a eight-week cycling intervention involving Bikeability sessions and encouragement strategies. Therefore, the ENERGYCO study aims to develop predictive equations for measuring energy expenditure during active commuting to school and assess the impact of a cycling intervention on adolescent health. It is expected to contribute significantly to research and society by providing insights into the effects of active commuting and cycling interventions on adolescent energy expenditure, physical and mental health.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- the school has a specific space for parking bicycles and allows for their parking
- the school does not have a specific school bus route
- the school has at least two lines per class
- at least eight students from the school will agree to participate in the study (i.e., presenting a signed parental consent).