Predictors of Physical Activity and Life Satisfaction Among College Students

Introduction: Healthy Campus 2010 identifies physical inactivity as one of the six priority health risk behaviors for college populations. Physical activity behaviors established during college years have a long-term impact on adult physical activity patterns.

Purpose: The purpose of this investigation was to gain a better understanding of physical activity and its relation to overall life satisfaction among college students.

Methods: Data were collected using a web-based questionnaire made available to all students enrolled in a southeastern university. IRB approval was secured prior to the investigation. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, logistic regression, and multiple regression. All statistical procedures were performed using SAS. All data were analyzed without regard to gender and by gender. The significance level was set at p<.05.

Analysis/Results: The total number of participants were: N = 1277, comprised of n = 938 women (73%) and n = 339 men (27%). Factor analysis confirmed the validity of the subscales. The 5-item life satisfaction scale produced a Cronbach's alpha of .89. Logistic regression was conducted to distinguish between those who participate in physical activity and those who do not participate in physical activity. Results of the logistic regression were significant for all participants (percent concordant = 62%, p<.0001). Statistical contributors to the model were: gender (p<.001), body satisfaction (p<.002), and life satisfaction (p<.007). Multiple regression was conducted by gender to determine if a set variables could account for overall life satisfaction. Results of the multiple regression were statistically significant for both females [F = 143.99, p<.0001] and males [F = 34.64, p<.0001]. The regression produced an R2 = .3320 for women, indicating that 33% of the variability in life satisfaction was accounted for by the model; statistically significant contributors to the model when added last were: body satisfaction (p<.0001), self efficacy (p<.0001), and frequency of exercise (p<.02). The multiple regression for men produced an R2 = .2498, indicating that 25% of the variance in life satisfaction was accounted for by the model; statistically significant contributors to the model when added last were: body satisfaction (p<.0001), and self efficacy (p<.0001).

Conclusions: Results indicated that respondents who participate in physical activity had significantly greater life satisfaction and body satisfaction. Body satisfaction, self-efficacy, and frequency of exercise (females only) significantly predicted overall life satisfaction. This research supports the need for physical activity curriculum, particularly at the college level.