Physical activity prevalence and associated factors among Zimbabwean undergraduate students: A cross-sectional study

TL;DR

This study found that while many Zimbabwean university students are physically active, only a small percentage participate in group-based physical activity, which could improve their health and academic performance.

Contribution

The study provides insights into factors influencing physical activity and group-based physical activity among Zimbabwean undergraduates.

Findings

About 75.7% of students engaged in moderate-to-high physical activity.

Only 41.9% of students participated in group-based physical activity.

Negative perceptions and not playing sports were linked to lower physical activity and poor knowledge of group-based physical activity.

Abstract

Many university students worldwide are physically inactive, negatively affecting their mental health and academic performance. Group-based physical activity (GBPA) can effectively increase physical activity levels. This study assessed the physical activity (PA) levels and related factors, knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of GBPA in a cross-sectional study of 1217 Zimbabwean undergraduates from three universities. Data were collected using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Exercise Benefits Barriers Scale (EBBS) and Knowledge, Attitudes and Perceptions (KAP) questionnaires. Data were analysed using logistic regression at α = 0.05. About 75.7% of the students engaged in moderate-to-high PA. Not playing sports [AOR 0.20;95%CI (.10 -.40)], a negative perception of exercise benefits [AOR 0.63;95%CI (.47 -.34)], studying a non-health program [AOR 1.4;95%CI (1.04- 1.94)], female [AOR 1.94;95%CI (1.45 - 2.56)], and first years (AOR 0.62; 95%CI (.43 -.91)] were associated with low PA. Only 41.9% reportedly engaged in GBPA. Not playing sports [AOR 3.06;95%CI (1.81; 5.17)] and negative perception of exercise benefits [AOR 2.69;95%CI (2.06; 3.50)] predicted low knowledge of GBPA. Lower PA levels [AOR:.684; 95% CI (.518;.903)], not playing sports [AOR 3.2 - 95%CI (1.92; 5.31)], negative perception of exercise benefits [AOR 3.34;95%CI (2.60:4.38)] and taking alcohol [AOR 0:63;95%CI (.48;.83)] were linked with negative attitudes and perceptions towards GBPA. While university students demonstrate high PA, knowledge, positive attitudes, and favourable perceptions toward GBPA, their participation in GBPA is low. Interventions targeting the promotion of GBPA among university students are necessary to achieve the benefits of physical activity.

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