Physical Fitness, Physical Activity and Quality of Life in Chilean College Students

Abstract

Health is understood as a complex relationship between several variables, in addition to lifestyle and quality of life. Thus, physical condition and physical activity become important in university students, a particular population that is vulnerable to acquire unhealthy lifestyles and reduce their quality of life, affecting their health. Aim: To determine the relationship between physical fitness, physical activity and quality of life in Chilean university students. Methods: Quantitative observational study of 131 university students. Variables such as anthropometry, physical condition, physical activity and quality of life were assessed using standardized tests and questionnaires. Results: Significant correlations were found between BMI and strength and negative associations with aerobic capacity. Aerobic capacity was positively associated with psychological health, health perception and quality of life. In addition, higher levels of physical activity were positively associated with better perceived health and quality of life. Discussion: The results suggest the importance of physical condition and physical activity in the health, well-being and quality of life of Chilean university students. Promoting healthy lifestyles could have a positive impact on quality of life. Conclusions: Significant relationships between BMI and different aspects of physical condition, as well as correlations between physical condition and quality of life, and physical activity and quality of life, were found in Chilean university students. These findings support the promotion of healthy lifestyles and highlight the importance of comprehensive interventions to improve physical condition and quality of life among university students in Chile. © Copyright: Federación Española de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educación Física (FEADEF)