Abstract

Introduction

Exercise plays a vital role in keeping the human body healthy and fit. It has been proven to have a tremendous amount of benefits to those who engage in it. However, in spite of all the known benefits that exercise brings, there is still a majority of individuals who do not participate. It is highly expected that as upcoming health professionals who encourage and promote exercise, nursing and midwifery students will be engaged in this activity.  

Method

The study participants were 3^rd year nursing and midwifery students who attended the University of Technology, Jamaica Western campus to assess if they were engaged in exercise, considering that they promote the activity among patients and community members.  An online questionnaire was used to conduct the survey.

Results

The results showed that 85.1% of the respondents reported a chronic illness. However, 53.2% did not participate in any form of exercise, 61% percent did not lead a healthy lifestyle and 83% did not consume a healthy diet.  Interestingly, 72.3 % were knowledgeable about the benefits of exercise

Conclusion

Being knowledgeable about the benefits of exercise does not automatically translate into behavior change.  Therefore, hosting awareness campaigns may not bridge the gap between the knowledge of the students and poor health habits.

Recommendation

Include behavioral science such as temptation building and gamification to create a health-oriented culture on the university’s campus