Effect of Physical Activity, Exercise and Sedentary Behaviour on Academic Performance of Students in Higher Institutions

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between physical activity, exercise, sedentary behaviour, and academic performance in higher education students. Staying physically active is crucial for preserving general health and well-being. The study aims to investigate the effect of physical activity, exercise and sedentary behaviour on students' academic performance in tertiary institutions. The study employed a descriptive survey design. The population comprised 200 students from the Federal, State and Privately owned tertiary institutions in Ekiti State. Physical activity and exercise levels were assessed using a self-developed questionnaire titled: “Effect of Physical Activity, Exercise and Sedentary Behaviour on Students’ Academic Performance (EPESSAP)” as an instrument for the study. The instrument's dependability was determined using the test-retest procedure. The Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was used to collect and analyze the responses. With a reliability coefficient of 0.83, it was found that the instrument proved reliable for the research. Two hypotheses and three research questions were presented. Inferential and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the collected data. The findings of the study revealed that most undergraduate students are aware that regular activities or exercise positively impact their academic performance; the findings of the study further revealed that a sedentary lifestyle makes students too lazy to get involved in physical activities or exercise, which eventually tells on their academic performance and that despite the wealth of knowledge on the importance of being physically active, majority of undergraduate students still live a sedentary lifestyle, among others. The study concluded that physical activity, exercise, and sedentary behaviours are not opposite ends of the spectrum. However, there are distinct behaviours with different predictors and pathways towards students' academic performance in tertiary institutions. Based on the findings, the study recommended that regular exercise can positively impact cognitive function, memory, and attention, which can lead to improved academic performance.