Overview

Original Research

TRACKING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN HEALTH STUDENTS: THE ROLE OF WEARABLE DEVICES: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

MOHAMED MOHAMED MASHALY 1, ISLAM H. FAYED 2, MANAL NASSER HUSSEIN WAHBA 3, REHAM M ABDELSADEK 4, LUBABA ALDAYYAT 5, and MOHAMED SAID HARFOUSH 6.

Vol 20, No 05 ( 2025 )   |  DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15462447   |   Author Affiliation: Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Buraydah Private Colleges, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia 1;2; Lecturer, Physical Therapy for Cardio-Pulmonary Disorders and Geriatrics, Nahda University 3; Lecturer, Basic Science and Biomechanics Department, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Heliopolis University 4; Lecturer, Physiotherapy, Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan 5; Lecturer, Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Damanhour University, Egypt 6; Assistant Professor, Nursing Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Buraydah Private Colleges, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia 6.   |   Licensing: CC 4.0   |   Pg no: 137-151   |   Published on: 19-05-2025

Abstract

Background: Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining health; however, many university students encounter barriers that limit their participation. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions. Aim: The study aims to track physical activity in health students and evaluate the role of wearable devices in enhancing their activity levels. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 students. Data on socio-demographics, BMI, chronic illness, physical activity participation, barriers, and smartwatch usage were collected using structured questionnaires. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were performed to examine associations and predictors of physical activity. Results: The mean age of participant was 21.7 ± 9.109 years, with 82% being male. Normal BMI was found in 60.5% of students, while 10% reported chronic illnesses. Only 42.5% engaged in regular physical activity, with poor time management (35.5%) and lack of motivation (15.6%) being the main barriers. More than half (58.5%) used smartwatches for activity tracking. Significant associations were found between physical activity and age (p < 0.001), gender (p < 0.001), income (p < 0.001), BMI (p < 0.001), and chronic illness (p < 0.001). Males, students with normal BMI, and those with sufficient income were more likely to participate in physical activity. Logistic regression identified BMI and gender as significant predictors of physical activity, while income and BMI predicted smartwatch usage. Conclusion: A significant proportion of students do not engage in regular physical activity, with time constraints and motivation being key barriers. Smartwatch usage is relatively high, indicating its potential as a tool to promote activity. Targeted interventions, including time management strategies, motivational programs, and increased access to exercise facilities, are recommended to improve physical activity levels among university students.

Keywords

Physical Activity, Healthy Students, Wearable Devices.