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Abstract
The benefits of regular physical activity (PA) for lifelong health are abundant. However, college students are at risk for a decline in PA levels during a transformational life-course period, where long-lasting health behaviors often form. One evidence-based program combatting physical inactivity is the Exercise is Medicine® On Campus (EIM-OC) campaign by the American College of Sports Medicine, which leverages campus resources (e.g., healthcare professionals, recreation centers, specialized professionals) to promote PA. This mixed-methods dissertation includes three studies investigating PA in the college student population from different socioecological levels, including the lens of EIM-OC. Study one is a secondary analysis of American College Health Association–National College Health Assessment data from Fall 2019, comparing students’ achievement of federal PA guidelines at EIM-OC-recognized universities (n = 5 campuses; 5,676 students) to non-recognized-universities (n = 36 campuses; 32,422 students). Study two incorporates a basic qualitative design with 11 interviews of PA practitioners working on EIM-OC Leadership Teams. Study three reviewed literature with concurrent subjective and objective PA measurement in college students to consolidate study characteristics, measurement tools, the inclusion of PA dimensions and domains, use of theory, and suggested future directions. Altogether, findings indicate that multilevel programs, such as EIM-OC, can be helpful intervention avenues to increase PA in college students. However, additional resources are necessary for the expanded implementation and improved research on this topic. Results herein can inform future EIM-OC research and intervention efforts, ultimately enhancing student health and success during college and beyond.
