Activity preferences of Gen Z in rural communities - key insights for improving the Philippine PATH-Fit program

Oct 15, 2026

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This qualitative-ethnographic study examines activity preferences of Generation Z students in rural communities to strengthen implementation of the Philippine physical activity towards health and fitness (PATH-Fit) program. Twenty selected Gen Z students participated through expert-validated open-ended questions. Findings identify seven preferences: fewer lectures, holistic activities, sports and physical activities, comfort, accessibility and convenience, community and outdoor activities, opportunities to disengage from technology, and activities that avoid added stress. Results indicate a need for engaging, diverse, and supportive PE approaches aligned with Gen Z well-being.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages13

Reading Time33 min

AccessFree to download

Article history

Introduction

Method and participants

Findings and key activity preferences

Implications for PATH-Fit implementation

Activity preferences of Gen Z in rural communities: key insights for improving the Philippine PATH-Fit program Ruben L. Tagare, Jr.1,2, Daniel B. Saroca, Jr.3, Jerrwin C. Aguinaldo4, Priscilla P. Dagoc1, Eduard S. Sumera1, Marlon A. Mancera1, Jomar B. Esto1, Cheeze R. Janito1, Marlene E. Orfrecio1, Jerum B. Elumbaring1 1College of Human Kinetics, University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan, Philippines 2College of Education and Liberal Arts, Adamson University, Manila, Philippines 3Institute of Education, Far Eastern University, Manila, Philippines 4Department of Physical Education, Brother Andrew Gonzalez FSC College of Education, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines | Article history:
Received Nov 4, 2024 Revised Mar 14, 2025 Accepted Mar 19, 2025 | This study explored the activity preferences of Generation Z (Gen Z) students in rural communities to enhance the implementation of the Philippine physical activity towards health and fitness (PATH-Fit) program. Utilizing a qualitative-ethnographic approach, insights were obtained from 20 selected Gen Z students through expert-validated open-ended questions. The findings highlighted seven key preferences: lessen the lectures, holistic activities, sports and physical activities, comfort, accessibility, and convenience, community and outdoor activities, activities to deviate from technology, and activities that do not add stress. The study revealed that Gen Z students in rural areas prefer PATH-Fit activities that are engaging, diverse, and supportive of their overall well-being. They favor fewer lectures to allow for more interactive learning experiences that integrate social, mental, and emotional aspects alongside physical activities. Additionally, they seek activities that are comfortable, accessible, and convenient, valuing easy access and minimal hassle. Community engagement and outdoor experiences are also crucial to them, as are opportunities to disconnect from technology and avoid stress. These preferences emphasize the need for a well-rounded and adaptable approach to physical education (PE) that aligns with Gen Z students’ diverse needs and well-being in rural communities.
This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA license.
| | --- | --- | | Keywords:
Activity preference Educational enrichment Generation Z Instructional adjustment Rural communities | | Corresponding Author: Ruben L. Tagare, Jr. College of Human Kinetics, University of Southern Mindanao Kabacan, Cotabato, Philippines Email: [tagareruben@usm.edu.ph](tagareruben@usm.edu.ph) Article Info ABSTRACT 1. INTRODUCTION The world health organization (WHO) has set physical activity targets, and 27% of adults and 81% of youth do not meet them, indicating a severe inactivity crisis worldwide [1] . It is advised that people engage in 150-300 minutes of moderate-intense aerobic exercise, 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intense aerobic exercise, or a mix of the two per week, according to Piercy et al. [2] . According to the WHO [3], the Philippines is alarmingly the second most physically inactive country globally, with an astounding 92% of its youth not engaging in physical activity. This poses a severe risk to public health. By giving students, the fundamental knowledge and abilities to embrace and encourage a physically active lifestyle, physical education (PE) adopts a proactive approach to resolving this global crisis [4] . With its well-structured curriculum and practical experiences, PE helps young people develop lifelong habits of physical activity. This improves public health outcomes by mitigating the detrimental effects of a sedentary lifestyle [5] . Born between 1995 and the beginning of the 2010s, Generation Z (Gen Z) has profoundly altered educational frameworks, cultural landscapes, and social norms concerning generational dynamics [6] . The first generation born in the twenty-first century is Gen Z. They are used to a world where globalization, technolog

FAQs

What qualitative approach did the study use to explore Gen Z students’ preferences?

The study used a qualitative-ethnographic approach with expert-validated open-ended questions.

How many Gen Z students were selected for the interviews or qualitative inquiry?

The findings were obtained from 20 selected Gen Z students.

What are the seven key activity preferences identified for rural Gen Z students in PATH-Fit?

They preferred fewer lectures, holistic activities, sports and physical activities, comfort, accessibility and convenience, community and outdoor activities, and opportunities to deviate from technology while avoiding stress.

Oct 15, 2026

Upload by Noah