Are people who are more physically active happier?

Abstract

Theoretical framework: The practice of physical activity generates great physical and psychological benefits. Likewise, people who are more physically active lead healthier life habits and show improvements in the levels of different psychological variables. However, does this benefit depend on the level of physical activity practiced? The aim of this study was to analyze the psychological well-being of a sample of university students as a function of the degree of physical activity performed. Methods: The sample consisted of 232 participants aged 18 to 46 years (M = 21.42; SD = 3.645). Of these, 177 were female (76.3%) and 55 male (23.7%). In relation to the intensity of physical activity performed, 116 participants presented a low level of physical activity, 48 moderate and 37 vigorous. The BMI (Body Mass Index) of the sample was less than 25 (M = 21.8; SD = 1.8). The variables evaluated were Physical Activity, Alexithymia, Anxiety and Depression, Self-esteem and Difficulties in emotional regulation. Results: When analyzing the differences between variables of interest based on the levels of intensity of physical activity, no statistically significant differences were found, except for the Alexithymia and Self-esteem scales. Conclusions: These results differ from those previously found in the scientific literature, which may be due to the homogeneity of the sociodemographic characteristics of the sample.