Factors Associated With Physical Activity Participation Among Students of Uganda Christian University, Mukono
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Date
2024-05-30
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Uganda Christian University
Abstract
Background: Physical activity is integral to the overall health and well-being of university students. Understanding the factors that influence their participation in physical activity is crucial for fostering a healthy and active student community. This study aims to identify facilitators and barriers to engaging in physical activity among students at Uganda Christian University (UCU).
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research design, employing a quantitative research approach, was utilized to collect data through questionnaires. The study involved 207 respondents, students at UCU, selected through consecutive sampling. The questionnaires were designed to capture perceptions of preventive health benefits, venue accessibility, and safety, social advantages, as well as barriers like time constraints, fatigue, and inconvenient schedules for exercise facilities.
Results: Key facilitators for physical activity at UCU include students' perceptions of preventive health benefits, accessibility and safety of venues, and social advantages associated with physical engagement 94.7% (Mean = 3.44; SD = 0.643. Conversely, identified barriers encompass time constraints, fatigue, and inconvenient schedules for exercise facilities.
Discussion: The findings suggest that students at UCU are motivated to engage in physical activity when they perceive preventive health benefits, accessible and safe venues, and social advantages. However, challenges arise due to time constraints, fatigue, and inconvenient schedules for exercise facilities. Comparisons with existing literature and discussions on the practical implications of these findings are essential for a comprehensive understanding.
Conclusion: To address these challenges, there is a pressing need to implement flexible exercise facility scheduling, expand and maintain exercise facilities, and foster peer-led activity groups. Recognizing these facilitators and barriers provides a foundation for tailored interventions to promote physical activity among students at UCU.
Keywords: Physical activity, preventive health benefits, time constraints, students, Uganda Christian University.