Physical activity engagement and wellbeing in an instructional physical activity program
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Lindsey W. Nanney (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
- Advisor
- Erin Reifsteck
Abstract: Many college students experience poor wellbeing (e.g., loneliness, depression, anxiety, and stress), have low levels of physical activity (PA) engagement, and engage in behaviors that threaten wellbeing. Academic PA and wellness courses can promote not just physical health but assist students in developing sustainable solutions to improve wellbeing. There is limited information on the short and long-term impact these types of courses have on both PA engagement and wellbeing in the lives of college students. Additionally, systematic evaluation and collection of student feedback is not currently conducted but is needed to contribute towards the development of evidence-based practices (EBP) for these courses to optimize their impact. The purpose of this study was to examine changes in physical activity engagement and wellbeing among students enrolled in an instructional physical activity program and identify student feedback on the program. Students enrolled in the physical activity and wellness course (N= 612) completed questionnaires on physical activity engagement and wellbeing at the start, middle, and end of the semester and provided feedback every two weeks and at the end of the semester. There were significant improvements on two mental health wellbeing subscales from pre to post (p < .05, d = .17, d = .24) and 30-day physical activity from pre to post (p < .01, d = .26). The majority of students strongly agreed (60.4%) or somewhat agreed (28.2%) the course promotes lifelong physical activity. Students also strongly agreed (60.4%) or somewhat agreed (26.4%) the course promotes whole person wellbeing. Identified areas for improvement included providing more choice and facilitating more interaction. Responsively, this research contributes to assessment in physical activity and wellness courses and supports their value from a student perspective.
Physical activity engagement and wellbeing in an instructional physical activity program
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Created on 8/1/2023
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Dissertation
- Language: English
- Date: 2023
- Keywords
- Higher Education, Instructional Physical Activity Program, Physical Activity, Student Perception, Wellbeing, Wellness
- Subjects
- Physical education and training $x Study and teaching (Higher)
- Physical education and training $x Psychological aspects
- College students $x Mental health
- Well-being