University Students’ Attitudes and Behaviours Towards Smoking and Exercise

This study investigated the validity of Planned Behaviour Theory in the smoking and exercise behavioural domains and whether positive attitudes towards exercise were negatively related to attitudes to smoking. The study also examined whether role identity, attitude strength, knowledge and information would explain variance in smoking and exercise intentions additional to that already explained by attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control. Gender differences were also examined. The sample consisted of 324 university students, 114 men and 210 women, aged 18–22 years (Mean=20.17 years) who responded to questionnaires related to smoking and exercise behaviours. The questionnaire was constructed based on Planned Behaviour Theory. The results indicated that positive attitudes and behaviours towards exercise were associated with negative attitudes and behaviours towards weekly and monthly smoking. In line with Planned Behaviour Theory, attitudes and perceived behavioural control were significant predictors of intentions, but role identity was also found to contribute significantly to the explanation of intentions. Women had stronger attitudes towards exercise but a very small percentage of them exercised. It was shown that exercise could be used as a behaviour that will help people avoid smoking. Physical education could play a significant role if smoking prevention is combined with the promotion of exercise in a health‐related physical education programme.