3228.0: Monday, November 13, 2000 - Board 10

Abstract #11543

 A prospective study of physical activity among college students

Rick Petosa, PhD1, Melinda Everman, MS1, Jeff Hallam, PhD2, Kelly Knott, MS1, Mellissa Hunt-Gram, MS1, and Jason Yost, MS1. (1) Health Promotion, The Ohio State University, 343 Larkins Hall, Columbus, OH 43210, (2) Health Promotion, University of Mississippi, Univ, MS 38677

The few studies that have examined physical activity among college students have been retrospective, point estimates. The purpose of the study was to prospectively examine free-living physical activity patterns in college students. A secondary purpose was to examine the college students ability to use physical activity self-regulation skills and the degree of social support for physical activity they received. All instruments used had previously established reliability and validity. The sample included 300 students. Their physical activity was measured over a seven week period. Results revealed that about 50% of sample was sedentary and only 9% was vigorously active 5 or more days per week. College students reported low use of self-regulation skills for physical activity and higher levels of social support for physical activity.

Learning Objectives: 1. Participants will be able to estimate current levels of free-living physical activity among college students. 2. Participants will be able to identify two advantages to longitudinal studies of physical activity

Keywords: Adherence, Physical Activity

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA