Objectives: This current study was carried out to evaluate the level of physical activity (PA) among undergraduate students of faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya. Materials and methods: This was a cross sectional study which was conducted at Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire [International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Form (IPAQ-SF)]and total of 231 students responded. Prior to the data collection, informed written consent was taken from the students. Main outcome measures: MET value (Metabolic Equitant) Results: The mean total MET of the population indicated that of ‘moderate physical activity level’. Comparing four study years (4th year to 1st year), total MET level was gradually declining from 1st year to 4th year though there were no statistically significant relationship found. PA level was moderate in all the degree programs but the values were different. In relation to sex, males were predominant in all the MET categories. According to the BMI category, normal weighted students were presented with higher values for MET categories compared with others. Conclusion: All the students of Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya were moderately physically active with higher percentages of walking MET minutes/ week in all the variables. PA score is gradually declined from first year to final year. RAD students were more physically active among all five degree programs. Male students and normal weighted students had higher PA scores respectively for sex category and BMI category.
Physical activity level, University undergraduates, Study year, Degree Program, Gender, BMI Category
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