Factors associated with adherence to physical activity recommendations among university students: a multicenter study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v77.117990Keywords:
Mental health, Physical activity, Academic performance, Depression, Multicenter studyAbstract
Introduction: Physical activity (PA) is an essential component of physical and mental well-being; however, its practice remains insufficient among university students, particularly in Latin America. Factors such as sex, academic workload, and mental health may influence adherence to the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations.
Objective: To analyze the factors associated with compliance with PA recommendations among Latin American university students.
Methodology: A quantitative, observational, and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 456 students from Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and the Dominican Republic. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) were applied. Bivariate analyses and binary logistic regression were performed to identify factors associated with PA compliance.
Results: A total of 48.7% of students met the PA recommendations. Males showed greater adherence than females (55.0% vs. 44.0%; p=0.023), and the absence of depressive symptoms was associated with a higher likelihood of compliance (OR=0.468; p=0.007). Furthermore, each additional hour of weekly study increased the probability of meeting the recommendations (OR=1.065; p=0.001).
Discussion: These findings confirm the influence of sociodemographic and emotional factors on PA engagement and suggest that better academic organization may promote healthier habits.
Conclusions: The study highlights the need for universities to implement comprehensive programs that foster mental health, reduce gender disparities, and encourage active and healthy environments.
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