The associations between physical activity, sedentary behaviour and anxiety in post-secondary students

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of anxiety is high in post-secondary students and most do not meet recommended physical activity levels. It is hypothesized that low levels of physical activity may be associated with anxiety in post-secondary students. Purpose: To determine whether physical activity and sedentary behaviour are associated with symptoms of anxiety in post-secondary students. Methods: Systematic review of the literature and cross-sectional study of undergraduate students in two Faculties at University of Ontario Institute of Technology. Results: The systematic review provides inconclusive evidence for the association between physical activity, sedentary behaviour and anxiety. The cross-sectional study suggests that muscular strengthening is associated with anxiety in the Faculty of Health Sciences and that aerobic physical activity is associated with anxiety in the Faculty of Education. No association was found between sedentary behaviour and anxiety. Conclusion: Physical activity is associated with anxiety in post-secondary students. More research is required to understand causal relationships of this association.