Comparative effects of supervised and unsupervised physical activity on physical fitness among doctoral scholars: a non-randomized parallel-group feasibility trial.

BACKGROUND: Doctoral scholars face unique health challenges due to limited time to engage in health-enhancing physical activity (PA). However, limited research has explored the effects of PA in this population. This non-randomized parallel-group feasibility trial aimed to compare the effects of supervised PA (SPA) and unsupervised PA (USPA) on physical fitness and cognitive function among university doctoral scholars. METHODS: Thirty-seven physically inactive doctoral scholars (age: 26.9 ± 2.4 years; BMI: 23.7 ± 2.3 kg/m²) from two institutional clusters of a university were assigned to one of two interventions: SPA (n = 19) or USPA (n = 18). Participants engaged in a structured program of resistance exercises (elastic bands and bodyweight) three times per week for six weeks, either under supervision or independently. Physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular endurance and flexibility) and cognitive function (inhibitory control accuracy) were assessed pre- and post-intervention. RESULTS: Significant effects of baseline values were observed for upper limb endurance (p = 0.041) and lower limb endurance (p = 0.035), with no significant group or interaction effects. Flexibility, cardiorespiratory fitness, and cognitive outcomes did not demonstrate significant changes. Adherence was significantly higher in the SPA group compared to the USPA, although compliance in both groups declined from the third week onward, reaching its lowest in week six. CONCLUSIONS: While PA interventions may support maintenance of fitness levels among doctoral scholars, the mode of delivery whether supervised or unsupervised did not result in differential improvements across most parameters. However, higher adherence observed in the supervised group highlights the importance of structured support in sustaining participation. Baseline fitness levels appear to play a significant role in determining outcomes, emphasizing the need for individualized approaches. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Prospectively registered in Clinical Trials Registry, India (CTRI/2025/05/087307) on 21 May 2025.