Physical Activity Behaviors and Campus Recreation Use of Students Enrolled in Summer Transition Programs at a Large Northeastern United States University

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the physical activity behaviors and campus recreation use of students enrolled in a summer transition (high school to university) program. The physical activity behaviors and socio-demographic characteristics of summer transition program students from a large Northeastern United States university were collected via an online survey. Descriptive statistics were computed, and disparities between genders were examined using independent samples t-tests. Women participated in less aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity compared to men (p < .05); and, among those who used the primary campus recreation facility, women reported lower use of both weights and informal sports areas, and higher use of group exercise compared to men (p < .05). Cardio area and indoor running track use did not differ between men and women. In summary, there appears to be an opportunity for university summer transitional programs to address disparities in physical activity by expanding coverage to address a currently unmet need for physical activity promotion.