Physical activity and perceived well-being at the university: longitudinal study during covid-19

The present study aimed to establish the relationship between physical activity (PA) and well-being among students and employees of a university in the city of Cali, Colombia, during two different moments of an academic semester. Thirty-eight students and 57 employees participated and completed a virtual survey, which included questions on sociodemographic factors, well-being perception, and PA. Multiple Factor Analysis and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis showed a general decrease in physical activity within the total sample over time, while variations were observed in the perception of well-being based on age, socioeconomic level, and marital status. Additionally, the study revealed that low levels of PA were typically associated with a low perception of well-being, but higher levels of well-being did not necessarily correspond to higher levels of PA. Based on these results, it is suggested that the relationship between physical activity and well-being is indirectly influenced by sociodemographic variables. This invites a broader perspective that goes beyond individual-level understanding of these variables and emphasizes the consideration of social and physical factors that contribute to their manifestation.