Physical activity, body composition and attitudes toward exercise among college students

Abstract

Regular physical activity (PA) is important in maintaining health and quality of life. Persons who do not regularly exercise or who adopt sedentary behaviour are prone to becoming overweight or obese, with significant impact on morbidity, quality of life, and physical and mental health. Positive attitudes towards exercise can facilitate the behaviours and values of a healthy lifestyle. The study aim was to investigate the association of PA level, body composition and attitudes towards exercise in university students. Body dimensions (height, weight, body mass index and fat percentage) of 300 male and 300 female students were measured and PA levels assessed. Attitudes towards exercise were assessed using a questionnaire. Female students were significantly less involved in PA than their male counterparts, with 24% of male and 63% of female students reporting that they (almost) never exercise. Most students (70%) had normal body weight, but about 20% were overweight. Participant groups (athletes, recreational, inactive, male and female students) had similar moderately positive attitudes towards exercising, which was not associated with body composition or PA level. A positive attitude was insufficient for regular participation in PA, but should be supported by education, as well as by diversified sport and recreational offerings and encouragement to engage in these activities.