Physical activity, eating behavior, and body image perception among university students

Background Inaccurate body image perception could contribute to the adoption of unhealthy eating behaviors and physical inactivity. This study aimed to assess the physical activity, eating behaviors, and body image perception of university students. Methods A total of 427 university students were recruited through convenience sampling for this cross-sectional study. The height and weight of the respondents were physically measured. Physical activity levels were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. Eating behaviors, including cognitive restraint, uncontrolled eating, and emotional eating, were evaluated using the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-R21. Body image perception was measured using the Ma Figural Stimuli. Results Most university students (72.6%) had accurate body image perceptions. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in total physical activity between students with accurate and inaccurate body image perception. Males had significantly higher uncontrolled eating scores (p < 0.05) compared to females, while obese students exhibited significantly higher (p < 0.05) cognitive restraint and uncontrolled eating scores compared to underweight students. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of understanding body image perception among university students when designing physical activity interventions aimed at body weight management.