Physical activity among Chinese university administrators: a path analysis

Abstract

The university is a unique environment equipped with multiple resources to provide physical activity (PA) opportunities. Research related to university administrators’ PA though scarce, has potential benefits for all individuals on campus. This study aimed to examine factors impacting PA among university administrators, hoping to gain insights on decision-makers’ perspective on PA promotion. Information regarding participants’ PA behaviors, intentions, perceived health, body mass index (BMI) and common demographic factors was collected using a survey. A total of 474 Chinese university administrators participated with 443 completed surveys. Path analysis was used to test the predictive and mediational role of variables on total PA (TPA). It was found that attitudes mediated the effects of BMI and perceived health on TPA; subjective norms and self-efficacy had significant direct effects and mediated the effects of satisfaction and attitudes on TPA. The non-significant effects of intention on PA participation were not expected. The results indicated that improving administrators’ PA beliefs and attitudes might be an effective way to promote an active lifestyle in higher education settings through policy, opportunity and facility.

Keywords:

• Physical activity
• higher education
• theory of planned behavior
• path analysis