The association between physical activity and body image among young adults

Background and Study Aim. Physical activity contributes to physical and mental health, while body satisfaction and body appreciation are indicators of psychological well-being. Body image is shaped by multiple interacting factors. Despite the recognised role of physical activity in health promotion, its relationship with body image remains a subject of practical interest. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between physical activity and body image among young adults, with particular attention to the role of body mass index and sex differences. Materials and Methods. The study included 720 university students from Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a mean age of approximately 21 years. Data were collected using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form, the Body-Esteem Scale for Adolescents and Adults, and the Body Appreciation Scale. Body mass index was calculated from self-reported body height and body mass. Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and the independent-samples t-test were used in the statistical analysis. Results. Body mass index was negatively associated with appearance satisfaction (r = −0.11; p < 0.01), weight satisfaction (r = −0.18; p < 0.001), attribution (r = −0.08; p < 0.05), and body appreciation (r = −0.26; p < 0.001). Associations between physical activity and the dimensions of body image satisfaction and body appreciation were generally very weak. Significant sex differences in favour of male students were found in body mass index [t(718) = 8.83; p < 0.001; d = 0.71], vigorous physical activity (t(718) = 6.82; p < 0.001; d = 0.54), moderate physical activity (t(718) = 5.05; p < 0.001; d = 0.40), and total physical activity [t(718) = 5.62; p < 0.001; d = 0.45]. Differences in body satisfaction dimensions and body appreciation were not significant. Conclusions. The findings indicate that a higher body mass index is associated with lower body satisfaction and lower body appreciation, whereas physical activity itself is not clearly associated with a more positive body image. These results confirm the complexity of the relationship between lifestyle behaviours and body-related perceptions in young adults. Health promotion programmes in student populations should therefore consider physical, psychological, and sociocultural aspects of health rather than focusing only on the level of physical activity.