Assessing College Students’ Use of Campus Recreation Facilities through Individual and Environmental Factors

Abstract

Physical activity is related to overall well-being among college students. For many college students, on-campus recreational facilities are the primary environment for physical activity to occur. Social cognitive theory highlights the relationship between individual factors, the environment, and behavior. This study aimed to assess the relationship of individual-level factors, including self-efficacy, exercise behaviors, and social physique anxiety, as well as students’ reported comfort in the recreational environment, with use of campus facilities. To test these relationships, the researchers surveyed 189 undergraduate students and conducted descriptive and linear regression analyses. Results suggest students’ comfort in their recreational environment is critical to their use of facilities, and, in turn, their engagement in physical activity. Suggestions for future research and practice, particularly concerning recreational facility use, are included in the discussion.