Association between Physical Activity and Body Fat Measurement in Female University Students: A Cross Sectional Study in Asian University for Women

Abstract

Background Obesity is a growing health problem in Asian countries and worldwide. Obesity is associated with chronic health consequences like cardiovascular diseases. One of the risk factors thought to be associated with cardiovascular disease is low level of physical activity. Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the association between physical activity level and total body fat percentage among Asian female university students in an international setting as Asian University for Women. Method Global Physical Activity Questionnaire version 2 was used to collect data from 365 undergraduate university students (mean age 21.5, SD = 2.2) from Asian University for Women. The three-site skinfold test was used to measure and calculate the total body fat percentage, and a standard questionnaire was used to obtain anthropometric measurements and weight gain associated factors. Results BMI and body fat percentage were mildly correlated (r = 0.47, p < 0.001). Physical activity was inversely correlated with body fat percentage (r = -0.69, p < 0.001). History of diabetes and thyroid, and usage of contraceptives and antidepressants were not significantly associated with body fat percentage. Conclusion In this sample of female university students, physical activity was inversely associated with body fat percentage.