Physical activity behaviors of students of a rural historically black college.
Physical activity can have a positive impact on health disparities among African Americans.


OBJECTIVE
In this study, we assessed physical activity behaviors and correlates of students of a Historically Black College.


METHODS
In September 2004, an online survey and pedometers were used to measure physical activity behavior and correlates.


METHODS
A convenience sample of 106 students completed the survey and received pedometers. Pedometer data were submitted online for 5 weeks.


RESULTS
One hundred and six students completed the survey. Twenty-eight percent and 41% of respondents met recommendations for moderate physical activity and vigorous physical activity, respectively. Week 1 daily pedometer step count average was 8,707. Most students reported positive outcome expectations for physical activity. Students submitting pedometer data were less likely to meet MPA recommendations than students only completing the survey.


CONCLUSIONS
African American students feel positive about physical activity yet most do not meet recommended levels.
Kemper
Karen A
KA
Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, USA. kkaren@clemson.edu
Welsh
Ralph S
RS
D001741:Black or African American / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity; D016730:Program Development; D012424:Rural Population / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D013223:Statistics as Topic; D013334:Students / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States; D014495:Universities / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D055815:Young Adult