Determination of cognitive flexibility and physical activity levels of high school teachers working in manisa province center

This study aimed to determine the cognitive flexibility and physical activity levels of high school teachers working in the city center of Manisa and to examine the relationship between them. The research was designed as a descriptive study using a relational screening model. The study area was the city center of Manisa. The study population consisted of 1,440 high school teachers working in the city center of Manisa during the 2023–2024 academic year (N = 1,440). The minimum sample size was calculated as 424, based on a known population size, an expected prevalence of 50%, a standard error of 0,04, a design effect of 1,0, and a 95% confidence interval. Between November and December 2024, a total of 440 volunteer teachers from selected high schools were reached (n = 440). Data were collected both face-to-face and online using three data collection tools: the "Teacher Introductory Information Form," the "Cognitive Flexibility Scale," and the "International Physical Activity Questionnaire." Ethics Committee approval and institutional permissions were obtained prior to data collection. As part of the descriptive statistics, mean, standard deviation, and median values were calculated along with frequencies and percentages. Based on tests for normality, either parametric or non-parametric methods were employed. Teachers' cognitive flexibility levels show a high level tendency (mean score on the Cognitive Flexibility Scale: 56,69 ± 7,30; Min: 28, Max: 72). According to the results of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, 36,4% of the participants were inactive, 26,1% were minimally active, and 33% were sufficiently active. A statistically significant positive correlation was found as the intensity of physical activity increased, so did teachers' cognitive flexibility levels (r = 0,149; p < 0,05). It is recommended that school-based programs be developed to encourage teachers' participation in physical activity.