Effects of a physical exercise program on psychological well-being in university women
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v79.117827Keywords:
Physical exercise, Physical activity, Anxiety, Depression, University studentsAbstract
Introduction: University students face multiple stressors throughout their academic journey, making them particularly vulnerable to psychopathologies such as anxiety and depression.
Objective: This study examined the effects of a six-week remotely supervised physical exercise program on symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and mood in female university students. Methodology: Thirty-nine participants aged 18–27 were randomized into an experimental group (EG; n = 18), which completed the exercise program, and a control group (CG; n = 19), which did not. Assessments included the Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS), Beck Inventories (BDI, BAI), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The structured training combined aerobic, strength, and bodyweight circuit exercises, designed and supervised by the researcher to ensure safety and promote health adaptations.
Results: A paired-samples Wilcoxon test revealed significant improvements for the EG in depression (p = 0.002), anxiety (p = 0.032), and stress (p = 0.037) after the intervention. These benefits persisted for 12 weeks, as indicated in the follow-up. No significant changes were observed in the CG.
Conclusions: Findings suggest that remotely applied, structured exercise can effectively reduce psychological distress in university women, highlighting its potential as a preventive and therapeutic strategy in mental health promotion.
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