A theoretical model of health promotion for physical education: salutogenesis on the scene

Abstract

This essay aims to present and reflect on salutogenesis as a theoretical model of health promotion for Physical Education (PE). Created by sociologist Aaron Antonovsky, salutogenesis searches for the origins of health in contrast to pathogenesis, which focuses on the origins of disease. We present the theoretical model, whose heart lies in the concept of a sense of coherence, and adapt it to the context of PE, sport, and leisure. The focus is no longer on risk factors and disease, but on the power of life and the collective construction of more satisfactory and dignified living conditions. Thus, salutogenesis is seen as useful for expanding actions and research related to health promotion in PE.