Role of Physical Activity Among Medical Students; An Observational Study

Physical Activity in Medical Students

Abstract

Background: A sedentary lifestyle and low physical activity have become major health problems among the young generation nowadays. Musculoskeletal problems are common in students and working adults related to ergonomic problems. Objective: To determine the role of physical activity among medical students. Methods: This observational study was performed from August 2021 to January 2022 on medical students of Fatima Memorial Medical College, Lahore, Pakistan after approval of synopsis from the Advanced Studies and Research Board using a non-probability convenient sampling technique to collect data from 362  participants after obtaining written informed consent. This survey was conducted by using the International Physical Activity questionnaire to determine physical activity at mild, moderate and vigorous levels. Data were analyzed for descriptive and inferential statistics by calculating continuous variables using mean and standard deviation while categorical variables using frequency and percentages. Results: According to the findings of the study out of a total of 362 students only 21 % of students do vigorous activity, 45 % of students do moderate and 33.9 % of students do a mild activity. Conclusion: Sedentary lifestyle and consistent sitting affect the lives of students. The results of this study showed that most medical students are physically active and this lifestyle has a positive impact on their health. They are involved in walking for more than 30 minutes to 1 hour. Most of the students have a moderate level of physical activity.