The Partner Exercise Program (P.E.P.) for College Student Exercise and Fitness

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of an Exercise is Medicine-On Campus^® initiative entitled the Partner Exercise Program (P.E.P.) on college student stage of change, exercise behavior, psychological wellbeing, and fitness. Undergraduate students (n = 108) participated in the 4-week P.E.P. in which they were instructed to engage in 150 min of self-directed physical activity as well as two separate days of strength training each week. Students also selected an exercise partner for the program, while self-monitoring their physical activity each day. At pre- and post-test participants completed measures of body composition and blood pressure, muscular endurance and cardiovascular fitness, physical activity, stress, and self-compassion. Participants exhibited a statistically significant change in their stage of change per the transtheoretical model, as well as body fat percentage, cardiovascular and muscular fitness, physical activity, stress, and self-compassion from pre- to post-program (p < .001). The P.E.P. was effective per the change in pre- to post-test results. Participants perceived it positively impacted their mental health, fitness, and academic performance based on qualitative feedback. This is a feasible program for other universities to replicate that may promote peer connection while positively impacting physical and mental wellness.