Medical Student Knowledge Of The Federal Physical Activity Guidelines

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to assess medical student knowledge of the 2008 Health People Federal Physical Activity Guidelines. METHODS: 254 Medical Students completed a voluntary survey assessing knowledge of the 2008 Healthy People Federal Physical Activity Guidelines. RESULTS: Of the 254 respondents, 38% of respondents correctly knew the adult aerobic PA guidelines, 72.44% correctly identified the adult muscle strength PA guidelines, 31.10% correctly identified guidelines for pediatric aerobic PA guidelines, 55.12% correctly identified the pediatric muscle and bone strength PA guidelines and 24.80% of respondents correctly identified a form of vigorous physical activity amongst a list of moderate physical activities. Amongst the 254 survey respondents, 201 gave examples of how they incorporate physical activity into their lives, 26% of the responses included solely exercise examples. Walking to work/class was the most common non-exercise response. CONCLUSIONS: Medical student knowledge of federal physical activity guidelines and the difference between physical activity and exercise is lacking. More emphasis on PA guidelines in medical education curriculum could enhance medical student knowledge and ultimately influence future patient education, health and wellness.