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Abstract
Background of the Study: University students frequently contend with
demanding academic schedules that can limit their opportunities for physical
activity and affect their overall physical fitness. A heavy academic load may
contribute to prolonged sedentary behaviour, increased mental fatigue, and the
development of long term health issues. Consequently, understanding the ways
in which academic pressures shape students’ physical activity patterns and
fitness levels is essential for fostering both well being and academic effectiveness within higher education settings.
Aim: This research examined the association between academic workload, physical activity, and physical fitness among undergraduate students at the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to ascertain the extent of academic workload, determine the prevalence of physical activity, assess physical fitness status, and explore the interconnections among these factors in relation to gender and faculty differences.
Method: A descriptive cross sectional design was adopted for the study. Data were gathered from a representative sample of undergraduate students using validated self administered questionnaires to assess academic workload across four subscales (mental, physical, temporal, and performance) and to measure levels of physical activity. These were supplemented by standardised physical
fitness assessments. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarise
demographic and activity related data, while inferential techniques, including
Pearson’s correlation and independent t tests, were used to examine
relationships and differences between variables. The threshold for statistical
significance was established at p < 0.05.
demanding academic schedules that can limit their opportunities for physical
activity and affect their overall physical fitness. A heavy academic load may
contribute to prolonged sedentary behaviour, increased mental fatigue, and the
development of long term health issues. Consequently, understanding the ways
in which academic pressures shape students’ physical activity patterns and
fitness levels is essential for fostering both well being and academic effectiveness within higher education settings.
Aim: This research examined the association between academic workload, physical activity, and physical fitness among undergraduate students at the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to ascertain the extent of academic workload, determine the prevalence of physical activity, assess physical fitness status, and explore the interconnections among these factors in relation to gender and faculty differences.
Method: A descriptive cross sectional design was adopted for the study. Data were gathered from a representative sample of undergraduate students using validated self administered questionnaires to assess academic workload across four subscales (mental, physical, temporal, and performance) and to measure levels of physical activity. These were supplemented by standardised physical
fitness assessments. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarise
demographic and activity related data, while inferential techniques, including
Pearson’s correlation and independent t tests, were used to examine
relationships and differences between variables. The threshold for statistical
significance was established at p < 0.05.
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