Physical Activity and Exercise Motivation Differences Among College Students

Health behaviors established during college years are typically carried on into adulthood; however, many college students are not meeting physical activity guidelines. In addition, sociodemographic and environmental factors impact exercise motivation and physical activity; yet, only limited research has compared motivations and behaviors between different student groups. Thus, the purpose of this study was to compare exercise motivation and physical activity among college students. In this quantitative cross-sectional survey study, a volunteer sample of 307 undergraduate students (75.2% White, 68.7% Female) enrolled in health and fitness courses at a Mid-Atlantic region United States University and Community College completed an online demographic questionnaire, International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF), and Behavioral Regulations in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-3). A series of independent samples t-tests were conducted to compare relative autonomy index (RAI) and subscale scores (obtained via the BREQ-3), as well as physical activity scores (MET-minutes/week obtained via the IPAQ-SF). Statistically significant differences in exercise motivation and physical activity were found based on student age, housing status, major/program of study, and gender identity. In an effort to reduce health disparities, university administrators and coordinators are advised to keep these considerations in mind when developing physical activity policies and programs for college students.