Association between demographic, academic, and behavioral characteristics with physical activity levels among international students in China during COVID-19 pandemic

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.

Keywords

• china
• covid-19
• international students
• physical activity level