STRESS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN MEXICAN TEACHERS

Abstract

ABSTRACT. This study examined the prevalence of stress and physical activity in teachers of Guanajuato, México.  With object to identify the main sources of stress in 304 teachers of basic education, it was applied to an adaptation of the scale of Travers and Cooper (coefficient .97 Conbrach´s Alpha). Physical activity was detected through a questionnaire. Results: Regarding level of stress, 7.2% of the teachers indicate severe pressure, and 46.7% moderate pressure. Moreover, the data reveal that only 11% of the teachers perform regular physical activity. Over half of the participants in this project are sedentary and do not apply the practice of physical activity as a protective action against stress and cardiovascular diseases. There is an urgent need to improve working conditions and to implement health intervention programs that benefit teachers, and students in schools and communities.