A Curriculum-Integrated 14-Week Course Enhances Physical Activity, Cognitive-Behavioral Factors, and Knowledge in Nursing Students

Background University students are often physically inactive, and curriculum-integrated interventions may provide an effective way to promote physical activity. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a 14-week “Physical Activity and Health” course for nursing students on their physical activity levels, cognitive-behavioral characteristics related to physical activity, and knowledge levels. Methods Fifty-two nursing students were divided into two groups as the study group (SG, n = 25) and the control group (CG, n = 27). The SG received the 14-week “Physical Activity and Health” course. Participants’ physical activity levels were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF); their cognitive-behavioral characteristics were evaluated with the Cognitive Behavioral Physical Activity Questionnaire (CBPAQ); and their knowledge levels were assessed with a 10-item, 5-point Likert-type self-assessment questionnaire. Assessments were conducted at baseline and after the 14-week intervention. Results After the intervention, the SG showed significantly higher scores compared to the CG in IPAQ-SF (light, moderate, and total activity; p < 0.001, p = 0.016, p = 0.002, respectively), CBPAQ (outcome expectations, self-regulation, and total; p < 0.001, p = 0.002, p < 0.001, respectively), and knowledge level (all items p < 0.05). Within the SG, post-intervention values were significantly higher compared to baseline in IPAQ-SF (light, moderate, and total activity; all p < 0.001), CBPAQ (outcome expectations, self-regulation, personal barriers, and total; p = 0.002, p = 0.011, p = 0.019, p = 0.004, respectively), and knowledge level (all items p < 0.05). The structured and curriculum-integrated 14-week Conclusion For university students, low-cost and easily applicable physical activity and health course content may significantly contribute to increasing physical activity and supporting healthy lifestyle behaviors.