5-Years of Wellness: Changes in Wellness Scores in a Conceptual-Based Instructional Physical Activity Program Before, During, and After COVID

Background: With instructional formats changing due to COVID-19 and college student wellness being affected by the pandemic, it is essential to examine the effects of Instructional Physical Activity Programs (IPAP) on college student wellness. These results show that prior to, during, and after COVID, an IPAP program can play a role in helping college students achieve and maintain wellness. Aim: This study reports the impact of an IPAP on college students’ wellness over five years. Methods: Undergraduate college students enrolled in sections of an online wellness course within an IPAP from Fall 2019 through Spring 2024 semesters (n =15,615) were assessed using the Wellness Inventory, which examines 12 dimensions of wellness. Assessments were conducted at the beginning (pre) and end (post) of the semester. Paired sample t-tests were used to assess significance of changes and effect sizes (Cohen’s d). Results: All 12 dimensions of wellness increased from pre- to post-test semester to semester. Results were statistically significant (p > .05), and effect sizes ranged from small (d = .24) to large (d = 1.13). Conclusions: Instructional Physical Activity Programs that include a wellness component can be a useful intervention to help students improve multiple dimensions of wellness.