Abstract
Introduction: There is little published information exploring the perceptions and physical activity patterns among undergraduate medical students in our country. So this study was conducted with the following objectives: 1. To assess the perceptions about knowledge regarding physical activities among undergraduate medical students; 2. To assess their self-reported physical activity practices. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore from 12 th to 30 th April, 2012. A total number of 427 students were chosen at by using the formula for infinite population. Tools: 1. A semi-structured questionnaire to know perceptions, barriers, and practices about physical activity; 2. Physical activity was assessed using International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Analysis was done by using SPSS version 11. Significance of differences across various levels of physical activity between different age-groups and gender were made by chi square test. Results: 376 students participated. Majority of them had high physical activity (54.75%). Knowledge was poor about prevention of diabetes (68.9%), stroke (61.6%), and osteoporosis (33.8%). Majority (82.4%) of them perceived health-related benefits of physical activity as motivating factors rather than prevention of chronic noncommunicable diseases. Most of them (72.3%) have enrolled in life style modification activities like yoga, going to gymnasium, etc. Conclusion: Most of the students fall into moderate physical activity group. Health-related benefits were the driving force for doing physical activity.
Highlights
Adequate physical activity is very essential in order to have good health
Most of the students fall into moderate physical activity group
The reason for doing physical activity was for gaining health-related benefits rather than prevention of chronic diseases [Table 2]
Summary
Adequate physical activity is very essential in order to have good health. In an academically demanding environment of college, students tend to do less physical activity.[4] One published study conducted on junior doctors from India did not explore the knowledge about physical activity or patterns of physical activity.[5] Another published from India which reported the patterns of physical activity did not explore if any students made a attempt change their lifestyle.[6] A comprehensive approach which explores various aspects would enhance the understanding. To assess the perceptions and knowledge regarding physical activities; 2. To assess the pattern of physical activity; 3. Barriers and motivating factors for physical activity among undergraduate medical students
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