PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AS A PREDICTOR OF COGNITIVE FUNCTION: A STUDY OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

This research explored physical activity (PA) as a cognitive function predictor among university students at Gomal University, Pakistan. A quantitative cross-sectional study design was employed wherein 308 hostel-staying students were proportionally sampled from nine hostels using simple random sampling. Self-reported levels of PA (vigorous, moderate, sedentary) and sport participation were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), whereas cognitive function was determined through the Cognitive Abilities Questionnaire (CAQ). Analyses found no meaningful connection between PA and cognitive results: Pearson correlation indicated negligible association (r= .001, p= .987), linear regression revealed PA intensities didn't forecast cognition (F = 1.318, p = .268; adj. R² = .003), and athletes didn't show any cognitive benefit compared to non-athletes (t = 0.141, p = .888). The results indicate that within high-pressure academic contexts such as Pakistan's collectivist university context, PA might not act as a cognitive predictor, stressing the significance of cultural and contextual moderators. The recommendations are culturally tailored PA interventions and comprehensive policies of well-being.