Evaluation of physical activity of university students

Abstract

EVALUATION OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Introduction. Health behaviors include physical activity, which is necessary for maintaining and reinforcing normal heath status. Regular physical activity at young age has a significant influence on correct development, growth, and functioning of an organism. Systematic physical activity suited to individual’s abilities is an element of health prevention in numerous diseases.

Aim. Evaluation of physical activity of university students was the objective of this study.

Material and methods. The study included a group of 194 students of Jan Grodek Higher Vocational School in Sanok. The respondents filled in a questionnaire developed by the authors. Statistical analysis was based on the chi-square test of independence.

Results. More than half of students assessed their physical activity as good. Respondents reported that the lack of free time was the major reason why they did not undertake any physical activity. Only every fourth student declared practicing sports and it usually included gymnastics, riding a bicycle, and jogging. As many as every tenth respondent did not attend P.E. classes during their university education. Men assessed their physical activity significantly better than women. However, female students declared practicing physical exercises more frequently than men.

Conclusions. Gender was a factor determining the frequency and type of physical activity. Only every fourth student practiced sports outside of formal P.E. classes, which is a phenomenon causing adverse health effects. Health-promoting interventions should encourage and motivate students to undertake physical activity outside of P.E. during their education at the university.