The impact of physical activity on college students’ well-being: parallel and chain mediation effects of academic anxiety and social support

Abstract

Introduction This study explores the psychological mechanisms underlying the relationship between physical activity and psychological well-being within educational settings. Methods Drawing on data from 620 Chinese university students and educators, we investigated the parallel and sequential mediating roles of academic anxiety and perceived social support. Results Using validated self-report instruments and structural equation modeling, results indicated that physical activity significantly reduced academic anxiety and enhanced perceived social support, both of which, in turn, improved psychological well-being. Discussion Notably, both a parallel mediation model and a chain mediation model were supported, indicating that academic anxiety and social support functioned not only independently as mediators but also sequentially, where reduced anxiety facilitated increased social support. Subgroup analysis revealed stronger mediation effects among participants with higher levels of physical activity, suggesting a dose–response relationship. These findings advance theoretical models in health and organizational psychology, providing practical guidance for designing interventions that promote sustainable mental health through physical activity and social support networks in academic communities.

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