ASSESSMENT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVEL AND HEALTHY BEHAVIOUR OF PORTUGUESE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

Dulce Esteves, Sergio Vieira, Rui Brás, Kelly O’Hara, e Paulo Pinheiro

This study aims to evaluate physical activity level and some lifestyle habits, presented by students representing two Portuguese universities. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to assess students’ physical activity level, together with a questionnaire designed to evaluate lifestyle habits. 35% of students surveyed present a low level of physical activity, reporting availability, timetable, distance and price as causes of non-participation in existing exercise programs. The main objectives associated with physical activity are improving physical fitness, relaxation, decrease stress, have fun, disease prevention and increased self-esteem. Students show some risk behaviors regarding tobacco, alcohol and drugs consumption. University authorities should combine efforts to attract students to practice regular physical activities or sports and design campaigns that sensitize students for the consequences of being sedentary and embrace unhealthy behaviors on health status