Students’ BMI Status: Benchmark for a Fitness Program

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for overall health and the prevention of chronic diseases. This study examined the Body Mass Index (BMI) status of 185 First-Year College of Business students at John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University-Molo, Inc., before and after completing a physical education course (PATHFit 1). The research aimed to assess BMI changes among students as a group and across gender, residence, and high school background, and to determine if these changes were statistically significant. The researchers conducted the study in mixed approaches using the face-to-face weigh in and height in for the Body Mass Index (BMI) test and the researcher-made online student profiling via Google Form for a comprehensive data collection. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including mean, standard deviation, and t-tests, were employed. Results indicated a positive shift toward healthier BMI statuses post-course completion, emphasizing the role of physical education in promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing health risks. Specifically, there was a decrease in the percentage of underweight students (from 19% to 9%) and an increase in those with normal weight (from 66% to 77%). Physical education programs like PATHFit 1 are effective in promoting healthier lifestyles among college students. Maintaining a healthy weight not only reduces the risk of chronic diseases but also enhances cognitive outcomes such as problem-solving and memory. Schools should prioritize physical activity to foster holistic student development.