Modelling determinant for success in promoting physical activity among socially disadvantaged groups

Physical activity is today considered as one of the single most important determinants for a healthy life- style and, more in general, an effective means of social intervention. Several studies have contented that, under certain conditions, it acts as a mechanism to strengthen community and provide mentoring and support for individuals. However, it has been equally well documented that disparities in health and social opportunity related to physical activity are strongly linked to socioeconomic factors such as income, education, employment and ethnicity. People who are poorer, less educated, unemployed or belonging to speci c ethnic groups tend to be less engaged in physical activity, with negative effects for their health-status and personal development. As part of a study implemented within the EU-funded project known as «European Physical Activity Promotion Forum - MOVE» the paper describes and analyses good practices that have been successful in promoting physical activity among socially disadvantage groups. It also de nes and describes a model based on eight determinants for success that are proposed as key organisational and managerial factors that decisively affect the effectiveness of a practice.