Relationship between physical activity, anxiety, and adherence: a correlational analysis

Abstract

This study focused on exploring the relationship between physical activity, anxiety, and exercise adherence in university students using a correlational approach. Standardized instruments such as the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-Short), the Beck Anxiety Scale (BAI), and a validated exercise adherence questionnaire were used. The sample consisted of 224 students from the University of Pamplona, ​​selected using inclusion criteria that guaranteed the homogeneity of the group in terms of anxiety levels and physical activity. Statistical analysis was carried out using Spearman's correlation coefficient, given the non-parametric nature of the variables studied. The results revealed a moderate and significant correlation between the level of physical activity and exercise adherence (rho = 0.403, p < 0.001), indicating that students with greater participation in physical activities were more likely to maintain consistent exercise practice. Likewise, a weak negative correlation was found between sitting time and physical activity level (rho = -0.136, p = 0.043), suggesting that longer sedentary time is associated with lower levels of physical activity. However, no significant correlations were observed between anxiety and physical activity levels (rho = -0.072, p = 0.214) or between METS and anxiety (rho = -0.089, p = 0.185), indicating that physical activity alone may not be sufficient to reduce anxiety levels in this population.