31st Annual Student Research Conference
Assessment of College Student Health Behavior and Interests and a Pilot of Be Fit Week Programming
Abigail K. Schultz
Dr. Brian Snyder, Faculty Mentor
College-aged students often self-identify health behaviors they wish to improve but find themselves struggling to make these changes. Objectively identifying barriers and gaps in knowledge within this population may facilitate sustainable behaviour modifications especially when administered via programing such as BeFitWeek. Methods: Surveys were administered to discover which health-related topics students were most interested in. Nutrition was a primary focus and a workshop developed. Surveys were distributed to receive feedback regarding the workshop, with a second survey four weeks later assessing if attendees had used information provided in their lives. Results: Students identified barriers preventing them from participating in healthy behaviors on a daily basis. However, many indicated they would attend a workshop again as the information they received was implemented to begin lifestyle changes. Conclusion: Future health behaviour change programming will use this information to build an evidence based and effective mechanism to impact meaningful and lasting health behaviors.
Keywords: Behavior change, Be Fit Week, Lifestyle changes, Health-related topics, College-aged students
Topic(s):Exercise Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 5-1
Location: GEO - SUB
Time: 3:30