Physical Exercise of Khon Kaen University Students

Abstract

This descriptive study was set to ascertain the frequency and factors associated with, physical exercise among undergraduates of Khon Kaen University living in dormitories on campus in academic year 2003. The sampling units were dormitories so the questionnaire was distributed at 15 dormitories. Respondents (from a potential sample size of 2,350 persons) were selected using one stage cluster sampling; but, the rate of response was 48.9 percent. To analyze data with percent and 95% CI for estimation the rate of physical exercise and multiple logistic regression for finding the factors associated to physical exercise.

It was found that the rate of physical exercise over the last two months among undergraduates was 22.7 (95% CI: 15.5 - 29.9) and design effect was 7.5. The main reason for participation was for fitness, while the reason for not exercising was a lack of free time owing to the demands of studying. One-third (32.5%) of the respondents chose to jog.

The factors associated with exercise were sex and body mass index. (p-value < 0.001) Males exercised 2.8 times more than females (95% CI: 1.6 - 4.7) and those having a normal weight 3.3, 2 and 1.1 times more than thin, overweight and obese persons (95% CI: 2 - 5), (95% CI: 0.9 – 10),  (95% CI: 0.5 - 2.5), respectively.

Judging from the low frequency of physical exercise, the university and its faculties systematically promote the benefits of physical exercise.