Chinese researchers tracking 877 university students over one year found that regular physical activity helps reduce anxiety, depression, and stress.
The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, followed participants from two Chinese universities. Researchers recorded baseline physical activity levels and emotional states at the start of the project.
Scientists evaluated the students again after six months to measure confidence in their athletic abilities. After one year, researchers measured psychological resilience and negative emotion levels while controlling for gender, academic year, and initial mental health.
Exercise pathways and psychological resilience
Results showed that more physically active students experienced anxiety, depression, and stress less frequently after one year. Physical activity directly reduced the risk of negative emotions while also working through two indirect mechanisms.
Regular exercise increased students' confidence in maintaining a routine exercise schedule. It also strengthened their psychological resilience, improving their ability to handle life challenges and stressful situations.
The authors noted that the study does not prove a cause-and-effect relationship, but it provides the first long-term observation showing how exercise can support mental health. Previously, researchers found that regular bubble tea consumption was linked to a higher risk of anxiety.
