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- Title
Association between demographic, academic, and behavioral characteristics with physical activity levels among international students in China during COVID-19 pandemic.
- Authors
Nivyimana, Willy; Mbasani, Rogious; Yollande, Djivoh; Daan, Zhou; Bayumvire, Claudette; Wang, Manyu
- Abstract
Background: International students face multiple challenges due to cultural distance, cultural shock, social support, stress and anxiety, language barriers, and classroom transition. Moreover, the outbreak of COVID-19 complicated the living situation for international students. Physical activity (PA) can be a coping strategy in overcoming health challenges as it is known to have health benefits, improve socialization and integration skills. Aim: The study aimed to determine PA levels of international students in China during COVID-19 and analyze the associated characteristics. Setting and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted among international students in China. Subjects and Methods: An online questionnaire that included demographic, academic, and behavioral characteristics together with International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form tool was used to collect the data. Statistical Analysis: Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, and Mann–Whitney U test were employed to analyze the data. Results: One thousand and hundred and twenty international students were recruited into the study. 71.3% of the participants were engaged in low, 15% in moderate and 13.8% in high PA. PA of international students was associated with gender, body mass index, marital status, continent of origin, student residence, study language, time spent in China and alcohol consumption P < 0.01; academic level P < 0.05. However, there was no significant association of PA with age and smoking status P < 0.05. Conclusion: This study indicates a lower level of PA among international students in China. International education management may consider the promotion of PA as a good intervention to the health of international students during COVID-19.
- Subjects
CHINA; PHYSICAL activity; FOREIGN students; COVID-19 pandemic; STUDENT health; MANN Whitney U Test
- Publication
Saudi Journal for Health Sciences, 2022, Vol 11, Issue 2, p97
- ISSN
2278-1900
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.4103/sjhs.sjhs_58_22