Physical activity levels of faculty in the higher education institutions in the Philippines during the peri-pandemic times: A comparative analysis

Mary-Grace Kang; Paul Christian Reyes; Maribeth Anne Gelisanga; Shobie Roselle  Vicente; Jerrecho  Pituk; Alicia  Bañas; Rene John  Futalan; Paulo Maria  Pagkatipunan

doi:10.55225/hppa.676

Authors

Mary-Grace Kang University of the Philippines, College of Allied Medical Professions, Manila, Philippines
Paul Christian Reyes University of the Philippines, College of Allied Medical Professions, Manila, Philippines
Maribeth Anne Gelisanga University of the Philippines, Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4190-1062
Shobie Roselle Vicente Lyceum of the Philippines University, College of Arts and Sciences, Philippines
Jerrecho Pituk De La Salle – College of Saint Benilde, School of Multidisciplinary Studies, Philippines
Alicia Bañas Philippine Christian University, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Philippines
Rene John Futalan De La Salle University Manila, College of Liberal Arts, Manila, Philippines
Paulo Maria Pagkatipunan University of the Philippines, College of Medicine, Manila, Philippines https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1218-7012

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55225/hppa.676

Keywords:

exercise, fitness, university, educator, survey

Abstract

Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic compounded the roadblock to optimal engagement in physical activity (PA) among educators. In the Philippines, there is a paucity of studies exploring the PA levels of higher education institution (HEI) faculty during the peri-pandemic times. This study aimed to compare the PA levels of Filipino HEI faculty before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Material and methods: This cross-sectional survey gathered and compared data on the PA of HEI faculty during the peri-pandemic times using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) – Long Form. Participants from five institutions of higher learning in Manila, Philippines were invited to answer the survey following pre-determined eligibility criteria.

Results: Eighty-one HEI faculty members participated in the survey. The majority of HEI faculty did not meet the World Health Organization’s PA recommendations across time points. Pre-pandemic PA yielded the highest level of engagement with a median PA of 780 (300–1410) minutes. Post-hoc comparisons revealed statistically significant differences in PA level only between post- and pre-pandemic periods (p < 0.0001) and during and before the pandemic (p < 0.0001). Active transportation using bicycles significantly increased during the post-pandemic period.

Conclusions: Results of this study provide baseline information on the level of PA engagement of HEI faculty during the peri-pandemic times. Information can be used to explore factors influencing their engagement and identify strategies to promote PA across domains and in diverse contexts. Post-pandemic implications include strengthening initiatives to promote PA among HEI staff through sustainable PA policies and programs.

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