Physical Activity is Personal: A Mixed-Methods Study of Undergraduate Students at a South African University

Background: Physical inactivity is a public health concern. Personal factors play a pivotal role in either prohibiting or promoting students’ physical activity (PA) participation. Limited studies have explored the influence that personal factors have on PA participation through a mixed- methodological approach. Therefore, this study aimed to 1) examine PA levels, preferences, motivation and mental health and 2) explore the personal factors that influence PA levels among undergraduate students from a South African university. Methods: A sequential explanatory mixed-methods design was employed. Quantitative data were collected through previously validated questionnaires among a convenient sample of undergraduate university students (n = 534). The questionnaire focused on PA levels, preferences, motivation and mental health. Data were analysed using SPSS V.29. Thereafter, semi-structured interviews commenced with a convenient sample of undergraduate students (n = 18) to provide insights into the quantitative results. Atlas Ti. V.8 was used for the thematic analysis. Results: Approximately a third (29%) of undergraduate students were physically inactive. Evening sessions and endurance activities were most preferred. Improving body shape, finding happiness and achieving one’s personal best were primary motivations for PA participation. Mental health concerns, such as depression (23.2%) and anxiety (40.6%), were extremely severe. Social support, social media and recognition from others were reported as facilitators of PA, while barriers included lack of knowledge, time constraints and financial limitations. Conclusions: The study emphasises that personal factors influence undergraduate students’ PA participation. However, the findings indicate inadequate PA levels among this demographic. Evening sessions were preferred, with endurance activities being the most favoured type. Social support and social media emerged as facilitators, while barriers included limited PA knowledge, time constraints and financial issues. Motivations for PA centered around improving body shape, happiness and achieving personal goals. The prevalence of mental health, particularly depression and anxiety were prevalent. Tailored interventions addressing both mental health and motivational aspects are essential to enhance PA participation.