Scheduled for AAHE Research Coordinating Board: Student Poster Session, Friday, April 11, 2008, 8:45 AM - 10:15 AM, Convention Center: Exhibit Hall, National Association Poster Sessions


Physical Activity Levels, Barriers, and Attitudes of University Faculty Members

Christina Chen, Matthew L. Smith and E. Lisako Mckyer, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX

Professional demands, expectations to publish, and the predominant reliance on technology have encouraged/promoted sedentary lifestyles among those working in academia. Study aims were to assess faculty members' Physical Activity (PA) levels, attitudes, and perceived barriers regarding exercise. Data were collected via the Internet from faculty members (N = 84; Males = 70.2%, Females = 28.6%) at a small Southwestern university. The majority of faculty members (63.1%) reported engaging either moderate or vigorous PA levels at or above the Surgeon General's (SG) recommendations; however, 27.4 % did not engage in PA levels at or above the Surgeon General's recommendations. Yet, 71.9% reported the desire to exercise more. 37.1% use the campus recreation facility (CRF) of which 82.1% met SG guidelines. The most frequently named barriers to using the CRF included time (90.2%) and lack of interest (13.4%). Other results on participants, PA levels and related variables – including stratification of results by discipline/field - will also be reported. Findings suggest that despite access to premier exercise facilities at free or low cost, faculty perceive substantial barriers to exercising in accordance to the Surgeon General's recommendations for PA. The audience will gain an understanding on the physical activity levels and perceived barriers of this unique population, as well as recommendations for targeted interventions.


Keyword(s): exercise/fitness/physical activity, technology, worksite

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