Campus Recreation Facilities Research Articles

An Examination of Campus Recreation Usage, Academic Performance, and Selected Health Indices of College Freshmen

Cross-sectional research shows that campus recreation (CR) facility use is related to higher grade point averages (GPA) and favorable health indices. Further research is needed to address whether the relationships are caused by greater use of CR facilities or the accommodation of existing behaviors valued by students with higher GPA and favorable health indices. Thus, 179 first year student's GPA, body mass index (BMI), television (TV) viewing, physical activity (IPAQ), and nutrient intakes were compared between those who increased CR visits (by ≥ 1 day/wk), and those who decreased CR visits (by ≥ 1 day/wk) between fall and spring semesters. No significant ( p < .05) differences were found between the groups for GPA, BMI, TV time, IPAQ scores, or nutrient intakes. Though these data indicate that GPA and health indices are minimally impacted by an increase or decrease in CR use, they suggest that students with higher GPA and favorable health indices are more likely to use CR facilities.

Benefits of Collegiate Recreational Sports Participation: Results from the 2013 NASPA Assessment and Knowledge Consortium Study

This study reports the results from the 2013 National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) Assessment and Knowledge Consortium. Students ( N = 33,522) from 38 different colleges and universities across the United States completed the Recreation and Wellness Benchmark instrument. Using Astin's Theory of Student Involvement (1984), this study sought to determine if there were significant differences between different depth and breadth levels of participants' campus recreational sports involvement/participation on student retention, health and wellness, and student learning outcomes. Heavy Users placed significantly more importance on campus recreational sports facilities and programs when deciding to continue at their college/university, and felt they had increased or improved every health and wellness and student learning outcome from their participation in campus recreation significantly more when compared with Moderate, Light, and Non-Users. Findings from this nationwide study demonstrate the value of collegiate recreation to the college and university experience.

Factors That Affect the Usage of Fitness and Recreation Centers by Students on College Campuses

This study analyzed factors that influence why students attend or not attend fitness and recreation centers provided to them on campus. With the obesity epidemic growing over the past decades, it has consequentially affected a vast majority of the nation, including the college-age population. The use of fitness and recreation centers on college campuses and universities has become a focal point for administrators and recreation center managers. This study utilized an online questionnaire that assessed fitness and recreation center usage within the college population. The survey used assessed factors related to college students’ usage or non-usage of campus recreational facilities. It was distributed to a random sample of 1,100 undergraduate students at a university through their student e-mail account. Results from the data collected revealed that users were more likely to be male, Caucasian, non-smokers, and have no health concerns. Factors related to usage of the recreational facilities included maintaining one’s current weight as well as weight loss. Factors that influenced occasional non-usage in the user group were lack of time and energy, too much schoolwork, and inadequate facility operational hours. A factor related to nonusage included proximity of the recreational facility in relation to the students’ living arrangements.

English

Short Message Service (SMS) text messaging is a ubiquitous technology available on the vast majority of cellphones in use in 2013. It provides a common technological denominator between mobile devices of nearly every make and model, supplying researchers an avenue to collect data without the expense and difficulty of designing specific applications for every cellphone or device on the market. SMS/text messaging was used as a method of data collection using a sample of students from a large, Midwestern university. The procedure adapted conventional time use measurement procedures to fit the device, the sample, and the behavior of interest. After answering questions on a brief Web survey, respondents were asked to text researchers for five days, updating major changes in their activities. Following data collection, data from the text condition was compared to that from a conventional (Web) survey and data from a reverse record check from campus recreation facilities to validate reports of the behavior of interest – physical exercise and activity. Findings suggest that respondents provided consistently high quality data on self-reports of the behaviors of interest. Moreover, paradata measures of text data quality (e.g., number of text messages sent, number of days with messages) predict data quality on the behavior of interest.

The Perceived Benefits of Participating in Campus Recreation Programs and Facilities: A Comparison between Undergraduate and Graduate Students

Both researchers and administrators are interested in factors that influence student success. The purpose of this study was to compare undergraduate and graduate students on the perceived benefits they received from participating in campus recreation facilities and programs. Students were randomly selected to complete the campus recreation survey, which was based upon the NIRSA/Student Voice Campus Recreation Impact Study survey. Of the students who answered the demographic questions, 35% were graduate students and 65% were undergraduate students; 43% were male and 57% were female; and the majority of the sample was White (68%). The results showed that participation in campus recreation had an influence on undergraduate and graduate students' decisions to attend and continue to attend the university. Participating in campus recreation facilities and programs had a positive influence on a variety of aspects of both undergraduate and graduate students' lives; students reported academic, health, and social benefits.

The Benefits and Satisfaction of Participating in Campus Recreational Sports Facilities and Programs among Male and Female African American Students: A Pilot Study

The purpose of this study was to assess the benefits and satisfaction of participating in campus recreational sports facilities and programs among male and female African American students. A convenience sample of students from classes in the Department of Health and Human Performance at a small southeastern private historically black college and university was used in the study. The instrument consisted of a modified version of the National Intramural-Recreational Sport Association's Quality and Importance of Recreational Services Survey. Independent samples t test and analysis of variance were used to test for differences between gender and the benefit of participation questions (α = .05). It was determined that 80% benefitted with communication skills, 79% benefitted with a sense of belonging/association, and 76% benefitted with leadership skills. In terms of gender, 79% of the males benefitted from self-confidence, 90% benefitted with a feeling of physical well being, 78% benefitted with a sense of accomplishment, and 81% benefitted with respect for others. Eighty-five percent were satisfied with their overall academic experience and 73% with satisfied with their overall experiences with other student services programs and activities. Males scored higher than females when it came to reporting the following benefits from participating in recreational activities: feeling of physical well-being, sports skills, fitness, physical strength, stress reduction, and balance/coordination. Although limitations to the study exist, the results provide further evidence that students report that participating in campus recreational sports has an impact on their benefits and their satisfaction with their academic experience and their experiences with students' services programs and other activities. This is a finding that can only serve to increase the practitioner's understanding of those who use such facilities and programs. More studies are needed to further examine the benefits of campus recreational facilities and programs on African American students.

Examining Intrinsic Motivations in Campus Intramural Sports

Regular physical activity has been shown to decrease the risk of many chronic health problems (Haskell, Lee, Pate et al., 2007). Recent research has shown a steep decline in physical activity as children develop through adolescence and into young adulthood (Sallis, 1993; Stone, McKenzie, Welk, Booth, 1998). Many universities across the country have updated their campus recreation programs and facilities to promote physical activity and healthy living. Overall health and wellness is one of the many benefits offered from campus recreation services. To maximize physical activity outcomes, an assessment of motivations to participate in campus recreation services should be considered. The purpose of this study was to investigate motivational factors that are associated with students' participation in intramural sports and compare these motivations across different demographic groups. The theoretical basis for this study was the Self-Determination Theory (SDT) developed by Deci and Ryan (1985). Motivational factors were measured using a modified version of the Motives for Physical Activity Scale developed by Frederick and Ryan (1993). Data collection occurred during the spring 2005 semester at a university in the southeastern United States. Significant relationships were identified between gender groups. Recommendations for campus recreation professionals are also presented.

Planning for an Inclusive Campus Recreation Facility and Program

This best practice brief highlights the collaborative work among a disability resource professional, a university architect, campus recreation professionals, and students with disabilities to create a campus recreation center with universal design features and considerations for students with disabilities. This partnership served to illustrate that building to minimum compliance standards does not necessarily remove barriers to equitable participation for persons with disabilities. It became evident that valuing the disability experience led to high quality design and further programmatic and equipment considerations made to accommodate all. From this project, best practices in inclusive, usable, and equitable design and programmatic and equipment considerations for users with disabilities can be observed and applied to future projects.

Predictors of adherence to an Iyengar yoga program in breast cancer survivors

Context:Despite the known health benefits of physical activity, participation rates in cancer survivor groups remain low. Researchers have attempted to identify alternative modes of nontraditional physical activities that may increase participation and adherence rates. This study investigated the determinants of yoga in breast cancer survivors.Aim:To examine predictors of Iyengar yoga adherence in breast cancer survivors using the theory of planned behaviour. Settings and Design: Classes were held either in Campus Recreation facilities or at the Behavioral Medicine Fitness Center at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada. The study was an evaluation of an existing yoga program.Materials and Methods:Twenty-three post adjuvant therapy breast cancer survivors participating in a community-based, twice weekly, 12 week Iyengar yoga program were asked to complete baseline measures of the theory of planned behavior, demographic, medical, health/fitness, and psychosocial variables. Adherence was measured by objective attendance to the classes.Statistical Analysis:We analyzed univariate associations between predictors and yoga adherence with independent t-tests.Results:Adherence to the Iyengar yoga program was 63.9% and was predicted by stronger intention (P<0.001), greater self-efficacy (P=0.003), more positive instrumental attitude (Ps=0.025), higher disease stage (P=0.018), yoga experience in the past year, (P=0.044), diagnosis of a second cancer (P=0.008), lower fatigue (P=0.037), and greater happiness (P=0.023).Conclusions:Adherence to Iyengar yoga in breast cancer survivors was strongly related to motivational variables from the theory of planned behaviour. Researchers attempting to improve yoga adherence in breast cancer survivors may benefit from targeting the key constructs in the theory of planned behaviour.

Fit and phat: Black college women and their relationship with physical activity, obesity and campus recreation facilities

The purpose of this paper was to recognize factors that contribute to Black female college students adoption of physically active behaviors. In addition, this paper acknowledges the prevalence of obesity in the United States for Black women, and examines the relationship between body mass index, physical activity and use of campus recreation facilities and programs. The study is approached from an intersectionality lens, utilizing a quantitative and qualitative questionnaire to capture and analyze the perceptions and voice of Black female undergraduate students (n=49) attending a predominantly White institution in the southeast United States. Recognizing the intersectionality of race, gender and class, employing the theoretical frame of Black feminist thought was appropriate to capture the ‘multiple jeopardies’ in their daily experiences. The findings revealed 75.5% of the participants were in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for physical activity; however, 77.1% utilize the campus recreation facility fewer than two days per week. Moreover, the findings suggest the sociocultural environment as the most influential factor on Black female collegiate students’ relationship with physical activity, obesity awareness and campus recreation facility usage.

The Influence of Campus Recreation beyond the Gym

Increasing student retention is an important issue on college campuses. Researchers have found that nonacademic aspects of campus such as campus recreation can positively influence students' lives (Belch, Gebel, &amp; Maas, 2001; Lindsey &amp; Sessoms, 2006). The purpose of this study was to examine some ways in which participation in campus recreation positively influenced students' lives. After receiving IRB approval, students were randomly selected to complete the campus recreation survey. The survey was based on the NIRSA/Student Voice Campus Recreation Impact Study survey. Of the students who answered the demographic questions, 45% were graduate/professional/continuing education students and 55% were undergraduate students; 43% were male, 56% were female, and &lt; 1% transgender; and the majority of the sample was White (78%). The results showed that students reported a variety of benefits including health and social benefits from their participation in campus recreation facilities and programs.

Who Enters Campus Recreation Facilities: A Demographic Analysis

Who Enters Campus Recreation Facilities: A Demographic Analysis

Impact of Facility Maintenance on Campus Recreational Sports Departments at Public Universities in the United States

Society, government, and the economy have a direct impact on the condition and availability of facilities at public colleges and universities across the country. This article explores the factors that have led to the current state of facilities and specific attention is given campus recreation facilities. Strategies for addressing the backlog of deferred maintenance are included. Stakeholders need to work collaboratively to ensure an institution has the recreation facilities needed for the campus.

Job Satisfaction for Campus Recreation Professionals within NIRSA Institutions

An international investigation was conducted to determine the overall job satisfaction of college campus recreation employees who are members of the National Intramural Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA). Demographic information was gathered to provide statistical analysis based on (a) region; (b) size of school; (c) private versus public; (d) four-year versus two-year schools; (e) rural, suburban, and urban location; (f) years in the profession; and (g) reporting structure. The following work related areas were examined to determine if NIRSA members were satisfied with their job environment: (a) personal/individual satisfaction, (b) staffing and organizational structure, (c) financial support, (d) salary and professional development, (e) department and individual expectations, (f) campus recreation facilities, and (g) campus collaboration and communication. The study found that overall the respondents indicated they were satisfied with their job situation/environment with greater satisfaction being shown by those with loftier job titles when compared with those with lesser job titles. Differences in job satisfaction were noted in terms of (a) supervisor's expectations of them, salary, and hours worked (based on amount of experience); (b) salary (based on title held); (c) budget allocation (based on reporting structure); and (d) a desire to leave their present position/job (in terms of job title held, experience/length of service and reporting structure).

Use of Nutritional Supplementation among University Recreation Users

Use of nutritional supplements and ergogenic aids among various user groups has been well documented over the years. One area that is lacking in current research is the use of these nutritional supplements among campus recreation facility users. This population is a prime target market for those in the sport supplement industry. There are many reasons people participate in campus recreation facilities and most would benefit from the use of nutritional supplementation if the claims made by the manufacturers of these supplements is true. However, the nutritional supplement industry is not very strictly regulated and the potential for risk to users is ever present. Obviously the risks vary among manufacturers and also with the type of supplement being taken. It is in the best interest of anyone contemplating taking a nutritional supplement to research the risks, benefits and potential side-effects. It would be beneficial for campus recreation administrators to have an understanding of what types of nutritional supplements their patrons are taking and the risks involved with such. It would also be of benefit to have an understanding of where the patrons obtain information regarding nutritional supplements so that nonbiased educational interventions can be developed with the goal of reducing risks associated with patron of these products. 200 users of a campus recreation facility were surveyed using an instrument designed by Scofield &amp; Unruh (2006) to assess the prevalence of use of nutritional supplements, the types of supplements being used, and where they obtain their information regarding these supplements.

Understanding the Perceived Determinants of Weight-related Behaviors in Late Adolescence: A Qualitative Analysis among College Youth

Objective Identify key factors underlying college weight gain, nutrition, and physical activity. Design Six focus groups and one-on-one interviews. Setting Large, public Midwestern university. Participants Fifty full-time freshman and sophomore students. Main Outcome Measures Factors influencing weight and weight-related behaviors among undergraduates. Analysis Qualitative analysis using a specific thematic approach, identifying themes appearing consistently across transcripts from recorded sessions. Results Major themes that emerged in describing important influences on weight, dietary intake, and physical activity included: unhealthful food availability on campus, snacking, late-night eating, alcohol-related eating, eating because of stress/boredom, and food in student dorm rooms. Other factors related to physical activity included: negative experiences using campus recreation facilities; poor weather; and lack of time/time management, motivation, and social support for exercise. Conclusions and Implications A wide range of factors may underlie weight gain and unhealthful diet and physical activity patterns during the college years. Young adulthood is an important and overlooked area for obesity prevention efforts. Universities need to take an active role in designing and evaluating weight-related health promotion intervention strategies focusing on a variety of targets, including individual-, social-, and environmental-level influences.

Comparison of Health and Academic Indices between Campus Recreation Facility users and Nonusers

Body mass index (BMI), electronic media (EM) use, International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) scores, selected nutrient intake, smoking, and grade point averages (GPA) were compared between campus recreation (CR) facility users and nonusers at a public, four-year institution in the mid-Atlantic region. Participants (n = 1034) were categorized by CR visits: nonusers, low users (&gt;0 to &lt;1 visit/wk), moderate users (≥1 to &lt;3 visits/wk), or high users (≥3 visits/wk). Significant (p &lt; .05) main effects between user groups were found for BMI, EM use, IPAQ scores, fat intake, smoking, and GPA. High users had better GPA (3.35 vs. ≤3.15 for others), IPAQ scores (8135 MET-min/wk vs. &lt;6800 MET-min/wk for others), and lower fat intake (&lt;30% of total calories vs. &gt;30.9% of total calories for others) than all other groups. High users also had lower BMI (22.8 kg/m2) than moderate users and nonusers (&gt;23.9 kg/m2) and lower EM use (5.56 hr/d) than nonusers (6.55 hr/d). These results indicate that CR visitations are favorably associated with academic achievement and good health.

Impact of Campus Recreational Sports Facilities and Programs on Recruitment and Retention among African American Students: A Pilot Study

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of campus recreational sports facilities and programs on student recruitment and retention among male and female African American students. A convenience sample of students from classes in the Department of Health and Human Performance at a small, southeastern, private, historically black college and university was used in the study. The instrument consisted of a modified version of the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association's Quality and Importance of Recreational Services Survey. An independent samples t test was used to test for differences between gender and the recruitment and retention questions, alpha = .05. It was determined that 60% of the male students reported that the availability of recreational sports was important/very important in deciding to attend the college and 68% of the men reported that the availability of recreational sports was important/very important in deciding to continue attending the college. Men scored higher than women when it came to importance of the availability of recreational facilities and programs in deciding to attend the school, the importance of the availability of recreational facilities and programs in deciding to continue at the school, how important sports and fitness activities will be to them after graduation, and the total times per week they participate in active recreational sports pursuits. Although there are limitations to the study, the results provide further evidence that students report that the availability of recreational sports facilities and programs has an impact on both their decisions to attend and remain at an institution. This is a finding that can only serve to increase the practitioner's understanding of those who use such facilities and programs. More studies are needed to further examine the impact of campus recreational facilities and programs on African American students.

Gym Bags and Mortarboards: Is Use of Campus Recreation Facilities Related to Student Success?

This study examined the relationship of student use of campus recreation facilities (CRFs) with retention and graduation rates at a large, public, Midwestern Carnegie doctoral-extensive university. Tinto’s interactionalist theory of student departure provided the conceptual framework. An extensive review of the literature on the relationship between academic performance and recreation facility use identified a set of critical explanatory predictors. Although anecdotal evidence and studies of student perceptions support the contention that use of CRFs promotes social integration, thereby increasing the likelihood of persistence, few studies have employed both actual CRF visit counts to quantify use and advanced statistical methods to analyze the data. The linking of visitation data to individual student records is a unique component of this preliminary study. Maximum likelihood estimated models were used to identify which factors were related to retention and graduation. Results show positive associations between CRF usage and both first-year retention and 5-year graduation.

Assessing Satisfaction with Campus Recreation Facilities among College Students with Physical Disabilities

The purpose of this study was to investigate satisfaction with campus recreation facilities among college students with physical disabilities. One hundred twenty-two college students with various physical disabilities participated in the study. This study found that use of and satisfaction with campus recreation facilities were significantly low among college students with disabilities. Specifically, 68% of college students with physical disabilities used campus recreation facilities less than 5 time per semester, and 37% of participants never used the facilities. The personnel in the area of campus recreation programs and facilities for students with disabilities should use the findings and suggestions of this study to provide better accessibility and accommodation of campus recreation facilities to students with disabilities.