Attitudes of Students about Physical Fitness at the University of Kufa

Physical fitness is vital for overall well-being, enabling individuals to perform daily tasks without excessive fatigue and contributing to quality of life. It varies among individuals and over time, encompassing both health-related and skill-related aspects. While traditionally linked to the absence of disease, true fitness involves a balance of physical, mental, and social factors. The decline in physical activity impacts students’ fitness, influenced by factors like socioeconomic status and access to exercise spaces, highlighting the need for lifestyle changes to improve physical fitness and health. Objectives of the study are to know students attitudes about physical fitness and to find a relationship between students’ attitudes and their demographic characteristics. Cross-Sectional study is worked to achieve the study objectives the study started from November 15th, 2023, to April 15th, 2024, The study was conducted at the University of Kufa in January 2024, Multiple locations within the university campus were selected for distributing the questionnaires and collecting data from the students, The sample consisted of 66 students from various academic levels and departments. A questionnaire consisting of three parts was used to collect data, first part included demographic information such as name, age, gender, marital status, educational level, and presence of chronic diseases, second part focused on students’ attitudes towards physical activities, third part addressed students’ attitudes towards physical fitness. The study concluded that university students generally have a positive attitude towards physical fitness, with many having a healthy BMI and being free from chronic diseases. A considerable number of students engage in physical activities like running and fitness exercises, showing a commitment to an active lifestyle. Marital status and chronic diseases are notable factors affecting their attitudes towards fitness, whereas age, gender, BMI, and educational stage are less influential. Additionally, students’ self-perception of their fitness level is linked to their participation in activities such as running, and the frequency of these activities further shapes their attitudes towards maintaining physical fitness.