Physical Activity of Osteopathic Medical Students

Context: Physical inactivity has been identified as one of the greatest current health burdens worldwide. In addition to physical activity’s primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention benefits related to many diseases, physical activity has been shown to be associated with improvements in concentration, memory, and performance on standardized tests. Studies on physical activity and medical education have suggested that given the scholastic demands required to become a physician, medical trainees may find it challenging to meet the recommended amounts of physical activity. Objective: To determine the extent to which osteopathic medical students (OMS) in the United States are meeting minimum recommendations for physical activity. Methods: Utilizing a cross-sectional design, in partnership with the Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA) and Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine (NSU-KPCOM), we conducted an online survey of third and fourth year OMS across USA, from August through December 2015. The survey collected self-reported data on frequency and duration of vigorous and moderate physical activity per week. Results: Most participants (60.7%) met or exceeded the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) physical activity guidelines of at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity per week. The OMS respondents’ mean of 215 minutes of physical activity per week significantly exceeded the ACSM recommendation ('p' = .000). Conclusions: OMS are well positioned to become physically active physicians and, in turn, promote physical activity in their patients. Future studies may look at barriers to physical activity in medical students and attempt to increase participation in active lifestyles in this population.