Exploring physical activity knowledge, attitudes, and health behaviours among medical students: implications for curriculum and policy enhancements

Physical inactivity is a major public health concern, yet many physicians feel underprepared to counsel patients on physical activity (PA). Despite national recommendations to integrate PA education into medical curricula, implementation remains inconsistent. This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours related to PA among medical students at the University of British Columbia (UBC), which offers the most extensive PA curriculum among Canadian medical schools. A cross-sectional survey was distributed to UBC medical students via email. The anonymous online questionnaire included 75 items adapted from validated instruments, assessing demographics, PA behaviours, knowledge of Canadian PA guidelines, attitudes toward PA counselling, and perceptions of the medical school environment. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests, including one-way ANOVA and Mood’s Median test, to examine differences across year groups. Of 217 respondents (18.9% response rate), 192 were included in the analysis. While 76.8% met national PA guidelines and 90.3% were aware of adult PA recommendations, only 57.0% felt they had sufficient knowledge to counsel patients, and 36.6% felt confident suggesting specific PA programs. Confidence increased with year of study but remained suboptimal. Most students (74.4%) desired more training in PA counselling. Although UBC students received more PA education than the national average, students perceived gaps in practical training and role modeling by faculty. Despite enhanced PA curriculum at UBC, medical students report limited confidence and preparedness to counsel patients. These findings suggest that increasing instructional hours alone is insufficient. Medical curricula should incorporate more experiential learning and foster health-promoting environments to better prepare future physicians for PA counselling and advocacy.