Abstract:

Aim: Regular physical activity has been shown to have positive effects on general health, cognitive functions, and mental health. The vast majority of university students do not meet the physical activity recommendations of well-accepted guidelines. In this study, we aimed to determine the physical activity levels (PALs) of medical school students and the related factors. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional, observational survey study. The survey was conducted with an online Google survey tool. Five hundred and twenty-eight students who approved the voluntary consent form were included in the study. A questionnaire including sociodemographic data and questions about personal lifestyle were used. The physical activity levels of the participants were determined with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short form (IPAQ-SF), depression and anxiety levels were determined with Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), respectively. Results: The mean total IPAQ-SF scores of the participants were 1658±1793.91 METs. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between BDI scores and PALs (r=-0.102, p=0.019). The PALs of those who had active hobbies and those who participated in regular sports activities were statistically significantly higher (p<0.001, p=0.001, respectively). BDI and BAI scores of those with active hobby were statistically significantly lower than those without (13.60±7.57 vs 16.46±9.59, p<0.001; 10.33±8.31 vs 12.64±10.13, p=0.004, respectively). Conclusion: In conclusion, having an active hobby and participation in sports activities positively affects the PALs and the mental well-being of medical students.

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