The Relationship between Physical Activity and Quality of Life in International College Students

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between physical activity (PA) and quality of life (QoL) in international college students who have had insufficient exercise time due to diverse challenges from new living and academic environments. Methods: A total of 193 (86 male and 107 female) international students from colleges and universities in North Carolina, U.S. completed all the questionnaires (Godin Leisure-Time Exercise and Quality of Life) for this study. Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression analyses were used to measure the relationship between PA and QoL and the influence of PA on QoL. Results: The results indicated the positive relationship between the sum of PA levels (mild, moderate and strenuous exercises) and all the subscales of QoL (cognitive, emotional, functional, integrated, physical, social and spiritual), however, there were no correlations between mild exercise and physical, moderate exercise and social, and strenuous exercise and two subscales of QoL (emotional and spiritual). In addition, the findings demonstrated the significant effects of the all PA levels on QoL in a positive direction. Conclusion: This study suggests that an appropriate level (mild and moderate exercises) of participations in physical activity in leisure time is able to contribute to the enhancement of the positive relationship with overall quality of life, especially in the aspect of psychological health promotion among international students.