Physical activity and sedentarism among university students: an approach using a real-life survey

Abstract Background Evidence shows physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) impact health-related outcomes. World Health Organization (WHO) provides PA guidelines for different life stages. A recent study revealed that engaging in SB > 6 hours/day increases all-cause mortality risk. Nevertheless many students spend a significant portion of their daily time on SB and PA levels are insufficient. Methods Students were selected by convenience sampling to complete a survey between October-November 2023. A validated PA questionnaire was included including PA Motivations and barriers. PA and SB were classified into 4 levels: Active but sedentary, extremely sedentary, physically active and discreetly active. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Results Out of 2,216 surveys 1,648 were women, 568 men and 59.7% were in first university years. In our sample, 12.9% don’t do PA. Of those doing PA, 47.1% (n = 1043) don’t meet PA recommendations. Regarding SB, 84.7% spend >6 hours/day in SB. When grouped into PA/SB categories 40.5% were extremely sedentary in contrast to 8.8% physically active. Non-university facilities (41.1%) were preferred over university facilities (11.1%). Use of non-university and university facilities correlated with WHO compliance. Main barriers among inactive students were lack of time (48%) and lack of a workout partner (18.6%). Conclusions Most students don’t meet WHO guidelines. Less than 10% are considered active, while 40.5% are extremely sedentary. University sports facilities are underused even if linked to better compliance. To promote facilities as health-promoting spaces and investigate reasons for their underuse is necessary. Lack of company as a reason for not engaging in PA points out the need to strength university sports communities. Key messages • Although many students exercise, the majority do no meet World Health Organization recommendations. • We must intensify university programs to promote physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior.