Elevating physical activity as a public health priority: creation of the National Society of Physical Activity Practitioners in Public Health.
BACKGROUND
Physical activity has emerged as a distinct area of public health practice. As this field evolved, the need for a professional organization for physical activity practitioners in public health became evident. A collaboration of several existing public health professional organizations formed to address this new area of public health practice. The collaboration laid the foundation to establish a professional organization. National Association of Physical Activity Practitioners in Public Health (NSPAPPH) was launched in April 2006. NSPAPPH accomplishments to date include convening a national meeting of physical activity practitioners, conducting strategic planning, adopting bylaws and core competencies for professional practice, developing a website and electronic newsletter, and establishing training opportunities for practitioners.


CONCLUSIONS
Future plans for NSPAPPH include development of a professional certification for physical activity practitioners in public health; enhancement of training and professional development opportunities; recruitment of members from national, tribal, state, and local organizations working in public and private sectors; publications of journal articles, reports, and issue briefs; and development of a policy agenda. Implementing these plans will serve to strengthen public health infrastructure for physical activity, thus improving the physical activity behaviors of Americans and the health of the nation.
Kimber
Christine
C
Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Unit, Minnesota Dept of Health, St. Paul, MN, USA.
Abercrombie
Eydie
E
Epping
Jacqueline N
JN
Mordecai
LeeAnn
L
Newkirk
Jimmy
J
Ray
Michael
M
D019058:Community Networks / Q000458:organization & administration; D006265:Health Care Coalitions / Q000458:organization & administration; D006292:Health Priorities; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D009043:Motor Activity; D009937:Organizational Objectives; D016134:Organizational Policy; D015980:Public Health Practice; D012955:Societies, Medical / Q000458:organization & administration