Abstract :
Physical activity is defined as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy
expenditure. Physical inactivity has been identified as the fourth leading risk factor for mortality causing
an estimated 3.2 million deaths globally. Regular moderate-intensity physical activity – such as walking,
cycling, or participating in sports – has significant benefits for health.
The purpose of this study was to assess the level of physical activity in physiotherapy students aged between
18 and 25 years. The assessment was conducted in 450 physiotherapy students. It included undergraduate
as well as postgraduate students. International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short (IPAQ-SF) was used
to assess the students. MET values of various physical activities during the previous week of respective
students were calculated. Post assessment, their respective physical activity levels were calculated and
quantified into inactive, moderately active, or HEPA active respectively. The physical activity level in students
was further quantified with respect to their BMI levels. According to the study, 39% students were inactive,
50% moderately active, and 11% were HEPA active.
Keyword :
Physical activity, MET, International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short (IPAQ), Inactive, Moderately active, HEPA active, BMI