Physical self-concept and motivation toward physical activity in university students: a cross-sectional study

Estrada-Araoz E.G.; Quispe-Mamani Y.A.; Noblega-Reinoso H.; Malaga-Yllpa Y. · Retos (2024) · DOI: 10.47197/retos.v61.109580

Resumen

Physical self-concept is a topic of growing interest in the field of psychology and education, especially at the university stage, where young people face various social and personal pressures that can influence their body perception. The objective of this study was to determine whether physical self-concept is related to motivation for physical activity in a sample of students from a public university. A quantitative, non-experimental, correlational, and cross-sectional study was conducted. The sample consisted of 222 students selected through probabilistic sampling, to whom the Physical Self-Concept Questionnaire and the PALMS scale were administered, both of which have adequate metric properties. The results show that physical self-concept was at a medium level, while motivation for physical activity was moderate. Additionally, it was found that the Spearman's rho correlation coefficient between both variables was 0.816, and the p-value was below the significance level (p<0.05). Furthermore, it was found that men reported higher levels of physical self-concept and motivation for physical activity compared to women. It was concluded that physical self-concept is related to motivation for physical activity in a sample of students from a public university. Therefore, it is recommended that universities implement educational programs that promote a positive body image and offer a variety of accessible and inclusive physical activities. © Copyright: Federación Española de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educación Física (FEADEF)

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional del Altiplano; Universidad Nacional Amazónica de Madre de Dios; Universidad Andina del Cusco