THE EFFECT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ENHANCING COUNSELLING SERVICE ON STUDENTS' PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS AND QUALITY OF LIFE: A UNIVERSITY CASE

The aim of this study is to determine the effects of physical activity-promoting counseling services provided to students on their physical activity levels and quality of life. The study included 29 students studying at a university in Turkey. The physical activity levels and quality of life of the students were assessed, followed by a 4-week physical activity-promoting counseling program. The same assessments were repeated after the counseling program, and the effects of the service were analyzed. A statistically significant increase was observed in participants' physical activity levels and all parameters of quality of life (p<0.05). The factors most limiting physical activity levels were identified as having other priorities, lack of time, and fear of injury. However, following the 4-week physical activity-promoting counseling program, participants’ physical activity and quality of life levels improved. After the program, the increase in physical activity levels among Nursing students was higher compared to those in the Health Management program. Reassessing the same participants in the coming years would provide an opportunity to evaluate the long-term effects of the counseling service.