Physical Activity, Stress, and Physically Active Stress Management Behaviors Among University Students With Overweight/Obesity

Abstract

Student physical activity is associated with lower stress. Research gaps remain regarding the types of stress management behaviors students use and how these behaviors are associated with students’ activity levels. This study examined associations between physical activity and stress management behaviors among students (18-35 years). Students with overweight/obesity (n = 405) attending universities in 2 urban locations enrolled in a randomized controlled trial to promote healthy weight and completed the following baseline measurements: perceived stress, stress management behaviors, accelerometer-measured physical activity, and demographic characteristics. Perceived stress did not differ by physical activity status or race. A greater proportion of students meeting moderate-to-vigorous physical activity guidelines used physically active stress management behaviors compared to those not meeting guidelines (74% vs 56%; P = .006), and students using physically active stress management had lower stress scores (13.1 vs 15.5; P = .003). Among Black and White students only (n = 306), a greater proportion of White students used physically active stress management behaviors compared to Black students (77% vs 62%, P = .013). Results indicate differences in stress management behaviors by student activity level and race. During times of high stress, colleges/universities might support students by promoting stress management and physical activity in tandem, and tailoring messages to student activity levels and demographic characteristics.