The Level Of Physical Activity And Its Relationship To Overweight And Obesity Among University Students

Abstract

The study aimed to identify the level of physical activity and its relationship with weight gain and obesity among students of Dar Al-Uloom University. The study sample consisted of 282 students, including 172 males and 110 females. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to measure physical activity levels, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated to determine the degree and level of obesity. Percentage, mean, standard deviation, Pearson correlation coefficient, and multivariate analysis of variance were used as statistical methods to analyze the data. The results showed that 50% of Dar Al-Uloom University students had a high level of weight gain and obesity. Additionally, 67% had a low level of high-intensity physical activity, exercising for only 1-2 days per week, while 69% engaged in moderate-intensity physical activity for 2-3 days per week. The sample population varied in their walking exercise, ranging from 1-5 hours per week. The results also showed a statistically significant positive relationship between the level of physical activity and weight gain and obesity. There were no statistically significant differences in the level of physical activity and its relationship with weight gain and obesity based on gender, major, academic level, and place of residence.