Assessment of the determinants affecting the promotion of physical activity among university students in Saudi Arabia

Maryam Abdullah; Asha Hasnimy Mohd Hashim; Dilpreet Kaur; Mohammad Ahsan

doi:10.15561/20755279.2025.0203

Authors

Maryam Abdullah Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1231-087X
Asha Hasnimy Mohd Hashim Universiti Teknologi Malaysia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1958-4793
Dilpreet Kaur Sri Balaji University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0517-1688
Mohammad Ahsan Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0232-3658

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15561/20755279.2025.0203

Keywords:

physical activity, physical exercise, promotion, university students, gender differences

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Promoting physical activity among students is essential for enhancing their overall health and well-being. Several factors influence how physical activity programs are designed and implemented in this context. The purpose of this study was to assess the determinants affecting the promotion of physical activity among university students in Saudi Arabia. Material and Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 670 participants. The age range was 18–30 years. A questionnaire was developed to determine the determinants affecting the promotion of physical activity among university students. The questionnaire consisted of 15 determinants that influence the promotion of physical activity. There were five response categories, e.g., 1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree. Data were collected online. Results. There were nine statements that showed significant differences between determinants identified by male and female students. Female students were more interested than males in the "autonomy of students in physical activities," "innovative curriculum," "teacher's motivation for students' engagement," "teaching strategies in physical activity sessions," and "use of digital technologies in Physical Education." The following five determinants were found to have the most effect on the promotion of physical activity in Saudi Arabia: qualified and experienced teachers, good student-teacher relationships, a good physical activity environment, fun in physical activities, and good facilities and equipment for physical activities. Conclusions. To effectively promote physical activity among students, it is crucial to develop strategies that are culturally appropriate, supported by accessible resources, and incorporate motivational tools that resonate with the student population. Implementing and evaluating such tailored interventions can lead to sustainable improvements in physical activity behaviors among Saudi students.

Author Biographies

Maryam Abdullah, Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University

mabdullah@pmu.edu.sa; Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

Asha Hasnimy Mohd Hashim, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

asha@utm.my; Malaysia.

Dilpreet Kaur, Sri Balaji University

Dilpreet_kaur2818@gmail.com; Pune, India.

Mohammad Ahsan, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University

mahsan@iau.edu.sa; Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

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