College

College of Health Professions

Date of Last Revision

2026-01-06 09:33:02

Major

Exercise Science

Honors Course

EXER: 430

Number of Credits

2

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Date of Expected Graduation

Spring 2026

Abstract

Background: Regular exercise plays a big role in maintaining an individual’s physical and mental health, preventing diseases, and improving overall well-being. A plethora of things can influence an individual’s exercise habits, for better or worse, including social, environmental, and familial contexts. This study described exercise and social influences among undergraduate college students. More specifically, this study described exercising habits (frequency, duration, type, etc.) as well as the role of social media, environmental conditions, and family support during a typical week of the academic semester.

Design: Cross-sectional, descriptive survey

Methods: A sample of 33 undergraduate students from a public university in the Midwest completed an electronic survey assessing exercise behaviors and social influences during an average week of the semester.

Data Analysis: Descriptive statistics were used to describe the sample, exercise habits, and social influences.

Keywords: exercise, physical activity, social influences, undergraduate student, social media, environment, family

Research Question: What is the relationship between exercise and social influences in undergraduate college students during an average week?

Research Sponsor

Judith Juvancic-Heltzel

First Reader

Melissa Smith

Second Reader

Stephanie Davis-Dieringer

Honors Faculty Advisor

Melissa Smith

Proprietary and/or Confidential Information

No

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