Race and sex differences in college student physical activity correlates
Laura H McArthur1, Thomas D Raedeke
1Department of Dietetics, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL, USA.
Objectives:
To assess sex/race differences on psychosocial correlates of physical activity among college students.
Methods:
Survey research protocol.
Results:
Students (n=636) exercised an average of 3.5 days per week, with black females being the least active. Across subgroups, health/fitness was rated as the most important motive for exercise, followed by appearance and mental health. Of the correlates, enjoyment and the use of self-management strategies were most strongly associated with activity level. Only 40% were aware that adults should accumulate 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most days (ie, 5) of the week for health benefits.
Conclusions:
Findings highlight the importance of teaching self-management skills and fostering exercise enjoyment in health promotion programs for college students.
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