Association between the body image perception, anthropometric measurements, and physical activity among the physiotherapy students

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Body image perception (BIP) is associated with self-perception. Excessive concern about body image and body image dissatisfactions (BIDs) are linked to the risk factors for eating disorders, low self-esteem, depression, and less physical activity (PA), in turn leading to obesity. It is still unclear how a physiotherapy student perceives themselves. Aims: The objective of the study is to find the association between the BIP, anthropometric measurements, and PA. Subjects and Methods: The study was conducted at Alva’s College of Physiotherapy, Moodbidri. This is a correlation type of study. A total of 127 physiotherapy students who were between the age group of 18 and 25 years were recruited for the study based on the inclusion criteria. Body mass index (BMI) and skinfold (SF) measurement were measured using a syndex skin fold calliper. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form and Body Shape Questionnaire were used to assess PA and BIP, respectively. Results: The study showed a significant association between BIP and BMI and SF measurements, where females are showing higher BID, whereas males are showing no significant result. PA and BID did not show any significant association among males and females. Conclusions: The findings of this study showed that there is a high incidence of BID among the physiotherapy students. Even though there was a good-to-excellent level of body fat among the university students, a high rate of BID was noted, especially among the female students.