Assessment of physical activity during PhD Studies, in Elbasan, Albania

This study aims to evaluate the levels and patterns of physical activity (PA) among PhD students during their doctoral training, with a particular focus on the correlation between PA, academic performance, stress management, and overall well-being. Main objective of this manuscript is to assess physical activity levels among PhD students and analyze associations between PA, perceived stress, and sleep quality. In this sense a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted including 55 PhD students (30 females, 25 males), aged 26–34 years, from Health Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences in Albania. Data collection tools included the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Biometric data such as Body Mass Index (BMI), resting heart rate, and VO₂ max were also recorded. Most participants recognized the health benefits of physical activity, but only a minority reported engaging in regular exercise. Low levels of PA were significantly associated with higher perceived stress and poorer sleep quality. Time constraints and academic workload were the main barriers to physical activity. Students in Health Sciences reported higher PA levels compared to their peers in Social Sciences. Male participants showed greater engagement in vigorous physical activity than females. In conclusion, PhD students in Elbasan face significant challenges in maintaining regular physical activity, adversely affecting their physical and mental health.