Associação entre o nível de aptidão física, saúde e desempenho acadêmico de estudantes do ensino superior

Abstract

Regular physical activity has been associated with improvements in cognitive performance, positively influencing academic achievement. This study aimed to associate levels of physical fitness (assessed by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire – IPAQ) with academic performance among university students, also investigating relationships with time dedicated to studying and the ability to balance academic and personal activities. This is a descriptive and correlational observational study with a sample of 42 students (mean age = 22.85 ± 2.5 years). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics, employing Fisher’s Exact Test to verify associations, with the aid of SPSS software (significance level p < 0.05). The variables analyzed included: Level of physical fitness (IPAQ), Academic index, Weekly study time, and Balance between study and personal life. The results showed statistically significant associations between: IPAQ and Academic Index (p < 0.05), indicating that students with higher physical fitness tend to have better academic performance; IPAQ and Study Time (p < 0.05), suggesting that physical fitness may positively influence study dedication; and IPAQ and Balance between Study and Personal Life (p < 0.05), reflecting a possible relationship between physical health and balance in academic demands. It is concluded that the level of physical fitness is associated with academic performance, reinforcing the importance of educational policies that integrate health promotion within the university environment. The findings highlight the need to encourage regular physical activity as a potential strategy to improve educational indicators. Keywords: Physical fitness, academic performance, university students, Fisher’s Exact Test, IPAQ.