Attitudes of Medical Rehabilitation Students Towards Physical Activity

Abstract

 Introduction: Physical activity (PA) refers to any form of muscular activity that increases energy expenditure compared to the resting state. Its benefits are evident at both the physical and psychological levels across all ages and genders, and they are especially helpful to physiotherapy students in overcoming challenges and providing support to patients during rehabilitation.

 Aim: To determine the factors that shape students' attitudes toward physical activity and exercise.

 Materials and Methods: The prospective study was conducted from January 1 to February 1, 2025, after approval from the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad. The study included 72 students from the first and fourth years of the Undergraduate Academic Studies in Medical Rehabilitation. Participants completed a generic questionnaire consisting of 5 questions tailored to the research needs, and then filled out the Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale (EBBS) to assess their attitudes towards physical activity.

 Results: The sample included participants with an average age of 20.79 years, of whom 53 (73.6%) were female. No statistically significant difference was found between first-year and fourth-year students in the total EBBS score (p > 0.001). However, a statistically significant difference was observed in the overall EBBS score between males and females, with males showing a more positive attitude toward exercise (p < 0.05).

 Conclusion: In their future work, physiotherapists must be aware of both the benefits and barriers to physical activity in order to appropriately tailor interventions and advice for their patients. Taking gender differences into account ensures a more effective physiotherapy practice.