Physical activity, health-related quality of life, and perceived barriers among the Alfaisal University Community in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Physical activity is an important component of health promotion, yet its relationship with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) within university populations in Saudi Arabia remains insufficiently understood. This cross-sectional study examined physical activity, HRQoL, and perceived barriers to physical activity among 353 students, faculty, and staff at Alfaisal University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form, HRQoL using the EQ-5D-5L and EQ-VAS, and perceived barriers using the Barriers to Being Active Quiz. Multivariable regression models were used to examine associations after adjustment for sociodemographic and health-related factors. Moderate physical activity was the most frequently reported activity category. Physical activity level was not significantly associated with either HRQoL outcome after adjustment. Compared with low physical activity, high physical activity was associated with neither EQ-VAS (B = 4.055, BCa 95% CI: −2.082 to 10.426, p = 0.197) nor EQ-5D-5L index scores (B = −0.005, BCa 95% CI: −0.035 to 0.028, p = 0.824). Pre-existing mental health conditions were associated with lower EQ-VAS (B = −11.891, p = 0.010) and index scores (B = −0.088, p = 0.001), while pre-existing physical conditions were associated with lower index scores (B = −0.042, p = 0.013). Female participants had higher odds of being in a lower physical activity category than males (adjusted OR = 1.897, 95% CI: 1.267–2.840, p = 0.002), whereas Saudi participants had lower odds of being in a lower physical activity category than non-Saudi participants (adjusted OR = 0.589, 95% CI: 0.396–0.875, p = 0.009). Lack of time, energy, and willpower were the most frequently reported barriers to physical activity. These findings suggest that, within this predominantly young academic population, underlying health status may be an important correlate of HRQoL, whereas physical activity level was not independently associated with HRQoL. University health promotion strategies may therefore benefit from integrating physical activity initiatives with mental health support and interventions addressing common behavioral barriers.
Source: Frontiers in Public Health
Institution: Alfaisal University
Language: English
Topic: Physical Activity and Health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W7223407837