Publication:

Knowledge of WHO physical activity guidelines and associated behavioural factors in physiotherapy students

Background As frontline advocates for health and exercise, physiotherapists play a vital role in promoting physical activity (PA). Despite this responsibility, a persistent "knowledge-practice gap" is observed among physiotherapy students, who often report insufficient activity levels despite their training. This discrepancy highlights the need to formally evaluate their baseline understanding of PA principles to better address these shortcomings

Methods A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 170 undergraduate and postgraduate physiotherapy students in Pune, India. Data were collected using a validated, self-administered questionnaire, which showed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha=0.9654$).

Results The mean knowledge score of the WHO guidelines was moderate at 2.4, standard deviation was 1.5 (Median: 2, IQR: 1-4). Key barriers reported were 'lack of time' (60%) and 'heavy academic workload' (55.3%). Primary facilitators included 'knowledge about the benefits of PA' (86.5%) and 'nutrition' (86.5%).

Conclusions A significant knowledge-practice gap exists among future physiotherapists, with the academic environment being the main obstacle to PA engagement. Curricular reform and institutional support are recommended to better integrate WHO guidelines and foster effective role models.