COLLEGE STUDENTS' KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICES ON DANCE EXERCISES

This study assessed the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of college students toward dance exercises, particularly focusing on Philippine folk dance and Social Dances (Latin and Standard), within the Physical Activity Towards Health and Fitness (PATHFIT 002) subject. Using a descriptive-quantitative design, data were collected from 301 students at the University of La Salette, Inc., through a validated and pilot-tested questionnaire. Findings showed that 49.5% of students had adequate knowledge of Philippine folk dance, and 35.5% had adequate knowledge of social dances. However, a significant percentage lacked an in-depth understanding, especially in social dances. Attitudes were highly positive, with mean scores of 3.50 for folk dances and 3.42 for social dances, reflecting appreciation for dance as a cultural and physical activity. Despite this, practice levels were only practiced often (M=2.92 for folk dance, M=2.75 for social dances), indicating a gap between what students know and how often they engage in dance. To address this gap, the study proposes the PATHFIT Program—Promoting Active Training and Holistic Fitness (PATHFIT) through Interactive Dance Exercises—as an intervention to foster consistent, enjoyable, and culturally relevant dance participation among students. The results offer insights for physical education instructors and policymakers aiming to enhance student engagement, fitness, and cultural appreciation.