The Association of Physical Activity with Academic Performance Among Medical Students at King Abdulaziz University, a Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

We sought to determine the associations between physical activity (PA) level and academic achievement and the correlation of PA with other variables. We also aimed to determine the exercise barriers among medical students at King Abdulaziz University (KAU). This cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2022, and 354 students participated. The students' PA was measured using the International physical activity questionnaire– short form (IPAQ-SF). The last semester's grade point average (GPA) was used to assess academic performance (AP) and the Exercise Barriers Scale (EBS) to assess exercise barriers. PA and AP relationship were insignificant. However, the overall correlation of PA to other variables was undetermined. PA levels among female medical students positively influence GPA whereas male students did not, and more than 50% of the participants had low PA levels. Our study indicates that the overall effects of academic achievement, gender, academic year, smoking, comorbidities, and BMI on PA level were insignificant. Our society requires awareness and support to promote PA, and the students require encouragement and support to exercise.