How Physically Active are University Students in Saudi Arabia?

Abstract

Background: Physical activity is a very positive behavior that has many health benefits, so understanding current physical activity levels in specific populations is important for health policy planning. Objective(s): to estimate physical activity patterns in King Saud University students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study estimated physical activity patterns among King Saud University students. An online survey was distributed to all students attending King Saud University. The survey included questions on socio-demographic characteristics and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF). Results : A total of 427 students were enrolled in the study (41% response rate of those clicking on the survey link). Three-quarters of respondents were females, and the majority were physically inactive (62.5%); no student reported being highly active. About half of them used their smartphones five hours or more per day, and the majority (65.1%) used applications to monitor physical activity. Bivariable analysis revealed a positive association between physical activity status and decreased hours of using a smartphone per day and using applications to monitor physical activity. Conclusion: Physical inactivity was prevalent among students at King Saud University. Targeted interventions are needed to enhance physical activity and prevent sedentary behaviors to prevent long-term adverse health consequences.