Introduction: Lack of physical activity (PA) increases chronic disease risk and reduces physical fitness (PF), posing a public health concern for young adults, including university students. This study aims to assess PA and PF levels in physiotherapy students and compare national and international students. Methods and Materials: A total of 122 healthy physiotherapy students (18-25 years) participated. PA levels were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and PF parameters, including flexibility, muscle endurance, balance, handgrip strength, and maximal performance, were measured. Results: Among participants, 57.5% had high, 38.3% moderate, and 4.2% low PA levels. International students performed significantly better in balance and maximal performance tests than national students (p<0.05), while other PF parameters showed no significant differences. Discussion and Conclusions: The findings show that there is a general similarity in PF levels between national and international students, but international students are superior in terms of balance and maximal performance. These results may indicate the influence of cultural, socioeconomic and environmental factors on PF.

| Download full article |