19th Annual Student Research Conference
Human Potential and Performance
A Cross-sectional Survey of Exercise Practices and Attitudes of College Alumni
Mary E. Wims
Dr. Jerry Mayhew, Faculty Mentor
Assessing changes in exercise patterns provides information concerning individuals’ attitudes across the lifespan in the context of differing societal eras. A survey assessing undergraduate versus present lifestyle and exercise behaviors and attitudes was mailed to a sample of alumni who had graduated 5,10,15, and 20 years prior. The returned surveys (n=249) were coded and analyzed. Prominent findings include a significant correlation between BMI and current exercise frequency, an increase in BMI as age increases, and the identification of time availability as the biggest barrier to exercise both currently and during the undergraduate time. These findings are useful for health educators and medical personnel in examining changes in exercise behavior trends and identifying associated motivations and barriers to engaging in health-promoting activities.
Keywords: exercise, BMI, attitude, alumni
Topic(s):Health Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 60-22
Location: OP Lobby and Atrium
Time: 4:15