Hold the horses: investigation into the impact of self-regulation on physical activity levels across BMI categories among college students

The study aimed to compare self-regulation and physical activity levels across BMI categories and examine the predictive capability of self-regulation on physical activity across BMI and sex. A quantitative research design was employed, using validated tools to generate numerical data and predictive analysis. A random sample of 339 undergraduate students from Bulacan State University, categorized by BMI, participated, excluding graduate and law students. Self-regulation was measured using the 13-item Brief Self-Control Scale (BSCS), while subjective physical activity levels were assessed via the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Ethical clearance was obtained before data collection. Analyses included mean and standard deviation calculations, linear regression, the Kruskal-Wallis H-test for non-normal data, and Welch’s ANOVA for self-regulation differences across BMI groups, using SPSS version 30. Results showed no significant differences in physical activity levels across BMI categories, though self-regulation varied, with underweight individuals exhibiting lower scores than normal-weight individuals. Additionally, self-regulation did not significantly predict physical activity across BMI categories or sex. The findings align with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by highlighting the need for active environments, structured health interventions, and institutional policies that support physical activity and self-regulation among university students. Universities should enhance walkability, recreational spaces, and policies promoting physical activity. Underweight individuals may benefit from structured exercise, goal-setting, and peer support. Future research should incorporate objective activity measures and diverse self-regulation scales for greater validity and generalizability.