Knowledge and Habits of Exercise in Medical Students

Abstract

Objective. To examine the exercise habits, knowledge, and self-efficacy of incoming medical students. Methods. Mixed-methods study consisting of (1) cross-sectional surveys and (2) qualitative key-informant interviews. (1) International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), American Adult’s Knowledge of Exercise Recommendations Survey (AAKERS), and Self-Efficacy for Exercise Scale (SEES) to assess student’s physical activity level, knowledge of exercise recommendations, and self-efficacy for exercise. (2) Scripted questions explored exercise habits, sources of exercise knowledge, attitude toward exercise. Results. (1) Results of IPAQ classified students as 50% having high, 40% moderate, and 10% low levels of physical activity (n = 132). AAKERS demonstrated a mean total score of 16.2/20 (n = 130) (81% correct), similar to the national average (mean = 16/20) (n = 2002). SEES mean score of 48.5/90 (n = 128) is similar to previous studies (mean = 48.6/90, 52.75/90). (2) Interviews revealed that most students have a consistent exercise routine. Few students received formal education in exercise (10%), while the rest cited either peers, sports, or internet as primary sources of exercise knowledge. Less than half stated they would be comfortable designing an exercise routine for patients. Conclusions. Incoming medical students live an active lifestyle but have limited knowledge and formal training in exercise. Student’s knowledge is predominantly self-taught from independent resources.