Physical exercise as a protective stress factor in primary and secondary education teachers: a systematic review

Abstract

The teaching profession is characterized by high levels of work stress among teachers, where the main associated factors are low salary, low status of the profession, misconduct on the part of students and the working conditions of the profession.
Method: This systematic review was based on the criteria of the PRISMA statement, following a strict search in PUBMED databases, identifying 18 articles to be analyzed. Conclusions: The teaching profession is among the professions or trades that present the highest levels of stress. Exercise programs serve as a protective factor analyzed from different sources, on the one hand, moderate and high intensity exercises and on the other hand yoga and meditation exercises would reduce stress levels. The methodological quality of the studies fluctuated between fair and good, finding no conclusive studies because 13 of the 18 articles based their research on surveys or questionnaires.