Student post-secondary success via physical exercise activities

Abstract

A research gap exists regarding the association between physical exercise and academic success within the post-secondary demographic as reported by post-secondary students. This study aimed to understand this gap through a cross-sectional mixed-methods study using a questionnaire and facilitated group discussions. The interdisciplinary research applied theories and constructs from communications studies and psychology to assess intrapersonal and interpersonal communication among participants. Through semi-structured questions in the facilitated group discussions, the research explored the mental, physical, and social impacts of exercise in relation to one’s academic performance. Through the assessment of motivations and student definitions of what academic success means, the research has shown that there are multiple outcomes from exercise that contribute as transferable elements and skills for their academic success such as increased confidence, focus, routine, etc. This study impacts post-secondary students, post-secondary institutions, and the fitness industry by providing opportunities to develop partnerships that create social and economic change. Keywords: Academic success, exercise, post-secondary, physical activity