Relationship between leisure-time physical activity and components of somatotype among university students

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Physical activity (PA) has become a critical component of social, economic, and health policy worldwide. Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) plays a particularly significant role in preventing lifestyle-related diseases. This study aimed to analyze students' LTPA and examine the relationship between LTPA levels and somatotype. Material and Methods. The study included 309 students, aged 20–24, from five Polish universities. Anthropometric measurements were taken, somatotypes were determined using the Heath-Carter method, and LTPA was assessed using the Minnesota Leisure-Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (MLTPAQ). Results. Among the students studied, 22.3% had a BMI above the normal range—31% of males and 13.6% of females. Men reported higher levels of LTPA than women and engaged in more physical activity across all intensity levels. In both male and female groups, one in four students did not reach the recommended leisure-time physical activity level of 1000 kcal/week. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between endomorphy and high-intensity LTPA in both sexes. Additionally, one in four Polish students in the study did not achieve a level of leisure-time physical activity sufficient to meet health-protective energy expenditure guidelines. Conclusions. These findings underscore the essential role of high-intensity exercise in achieving beneficial levels of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA). They also highlight the importance of considering individual somatotype characteristics when developing physical activity recommendations for university students. Promoting tailored, intensity-specific LTPA programs could enhance engagement and address diverse fitness needs, contributing to effective health interventions in young adult populations.