Study Days Are Often Too Sedentary
Students spend most of their study days on campus sitting still. Only half of the respondents reported engaging in any physical activity on campus beyond essential movements, and only one-third said they go outdoors between lectures at least once a week. There is clearly room for improvement, as physical activity during study days has been shown to improve learning and concentration (Tutkimukset osoittavat, että opiskeluun liitetty liike parantaa oppimista, Acatiimi 1/2024).
The main reasons students identified for their sedentary behavior include:
- Lack of time (57%)
- Preference for exercising during leisure time (52%)
- Focus on academic work (34%)
- Lack of awareness of campus exercise opportunities (34%)
- Peers also not engaging in exercise (26%)
- Lack of opportunities for physical activity (20%)
Students Want Break-time Exercises During Lectures
While 62% of students said they independently take breaks to move during lectures at least once a week (33% almost daily), a larger proportion—75%—expressed a desire for guided break-time exercises during classes (12% disagreed, 13% were unsure).
“This perhaps reflects students’ awareness of the effects of prolonged sitting on their well-being. However, not everyone may feel comfortable or confident taking breaks without explicit permission from the instructor, which is why guided break-time exercises are in high demand.”
Project coordinator Sini Karsa
Students also recognize the benefits of movement for learning. Up to 60% want more dynamic teaching methods incorporating movement. The current situation shows a clear difference between institutions: 27% of TAMK students participate in movement-based teaching weekly, compared to just 11% at the university. Similarly, 29% of TAMK students said the importance of physical activity for professional fitness has been discussed during their studies, compared to only 15% of university students.
“The significance of physical activity for future professional fitness cannot be overstated. The fact that only 20% of our students reported this being discussed at all during their studies is concerning.”
Project coordinator Sini Karsa
Focus Needed on Encouraging Active Commuting
Active commuting, such as walking or biking to campus, also requires significant improvement. A notable 41% of students do not typically commute actively. Differences between institutions are apparent, with 45% of TAU students commuting actively daily, compared to only 23% of TAMK students. Reasons for this discrepancy may include factors such as remote studies, campus location, or personal circumstances.
On a positive note, most students find the current bike parking facilities adequate (only 8% disagreed).
“Only one-third of students reported being encouraged to commute actively. This is an area where we can make a difference and should emphasize more in our communications.”
Social Interaction and Refreshment Motivate Students to Move
Students understand the benefits of physical activity, with nearly half identifying refreshment and relaxation as the main reasons for exercising during study days. Socializing with peers is another key motivator. Other factors encouraging movement include:
- Guided break-time exercises during lessons (37%)
- Independent exercise during designated breaks (35%)
- Access to gyms (35%) / sports halls (27%)
- Opportunities for self-directed exercise during breaks (33%)
- Challenges and campaigns (33%)
Explore a more detailed summary of the results in Finnish: