Physical Activity Pattern among Undergraduate Medical Students in a Rural Medical College in Southkerala: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Physical inactivity is the prime contributor to one –third of the world’s adult population’s noncommunicable
diseases. Doctors, in spite of their knowledge regarding the benefits, often find it hard to stick to
a proper exercise regime and follow their own advice. This could be due to habits they picked up during their
college years. The present study aims to estimate the proportion of physical activity among MBBS students of a
rural medical college in Kerala using WHO’s GPAQ questionnaire (Global Physical Activity Questionnaire) and
also to determine the factors associated with their physical activity pattern.
Methodology: A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted among undergraduate medical students of
a private medical college in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, from December 2021 to April 2022. Physical activity
patterns were assessed using the WHO’s Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. An online questionnaire using
Kobo Toolbox was developed and shared to record their physical activity patterns .
Results: A total of 341 students participated in the study. The study showed that only 25% of students achieved
above 600 METs (Metabolic equivalents) and had adequate physical activities. The mean duration of hours spent
on sedentary activities on average per day by the study participants was 6.75 hours (SD 3.6). Among the 341
students, 78 (22.8%) reported that they were unable to do physical activities. The reasons for unable to do physical
activities were study burden 48 (61%), engaging in other activities 35(44.8%), lack of motivation 22 (28.2%), lack of
facilities 19 (24.5%), health issues 18 (23%) and environmental barriers 5 (6.5%),. Among the students with above
average screen time, 71% of them were found to be physically inactive. and was found to be statistically significant.
Conclusion: Medical institutions should have an adequate environment for physical activity. It is ideal to appoint
a physical education trainer and allot mandatory time for physical activities for a few hours every week. Students
must be encouraged to reduce time spent glued to their mobile screens. Hostels must have properly maintained
and easily accessible exercise areas with adequate equipment. Health awareness programs and marathons must
be promoted.