Exploring the Relationship Between Physical Activity and Eating Disorder Attitude in Generation Z University Students a Cross-Sectional Study

AIM: This study was conducted to examine the association between PA levels and attitudes toward eating disorders in students at Sirjan University of Medical Sciences during 2022.

METHODS: Employing a descriptive correlational design, this study involved 212 students from Sirjan University of Medical Sciences located in southeastern Iran. Participants were selected using quota sampling. Data collection instruments included demographic questionnaires, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and the Eating Attitude Test-26 (EAT-26).

RESULTS: Data analysis utilized both parametric and non-parametric methods through Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 20, with statistical significance set at p < .05. The average age of participants was 22.37 ± 7.4 years. Findings indicated eating attitudes showed a statistically significant but weak association with PA (p = .04, r = .13). Linear regression revealed that a one-point rise in eating attitude scores corresponded to a 0.14 increase in PA scores. Among factors significantly predicting attitudes toward eating disorders were academic year (p = .001) and frequency of fast-food consumption per week (p = .02). Gender was identified as a significant predictor for PA levels (p = .00).

CONCLUSIONS: The study results suggest that attitudes related to eating behaviors can predict PA levels among Gen Z university students. Recognizing these predictors may help healthcare professionals develop targeted strategies that promote PA and foster healthier eating attitudes within this demographic, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being and academic success.

Cite this article as: Beitollahi, M., Tirgari, B., & Forouzi, M. A. (2026). Exploring the relationship between physical activity and eating disorder attitude in generation Z university students a cross-sectional study. Florence Nightingale Journal of Nursing, 34, 0058, doi: 10.5152/FNJN.2026.25058.