Factors associated with changes in physical activity practices among Brazilian university students during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The present research aimed to analyse sociodemographic, university affiliation, and lifestyle factors associated with changes in physical activity among Brazilian university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional study with 1,151 students from Estácio de Sá University, Brazil. Factors related to the dependent variable “moderate physical activity” were analysed using Odds Ratio and 95% confidence intervals through multinomial logistic regression. 35.5% of the students reported an increase in physical activity, while 25.7% reported a decrease. There was a higher likelihood of a decrease among men, daytime students, those less stressed about leaving home, and those who monitored their blood pressure. Students taking up to three courses were less likely to reduce their physical activity. Increases in physical activity were influenced by being male, residing in the capital, studying in health-related courses, doing the daytime study, reducing sedentary behaviour, and monitoring blood pressure. A lower chance of increase occurred among students who maintained or increased physical distancing in open spaces. Sociodemographic factors, university affiliation, and health-related behaviours were associated with both reductions and increases in physical activity.