ABSTRACT
This study investigated the influence of exercise on the mental health of collegiate athletes, highlighting its importance for physical and mental well-being. Collegiate athletes face numerous stressors, including significant events and academic challenges, which impact their mental health. The study found that more frequent and longer training sessions were associated with lower psychological strain. However, many athletes do not engage in daily exercise for at least 60 minutes, consistent with findings from previous studies linking regular physical activity to reduced mental disorders and enhanced wellbeing. The results also showed that collegiate athletes are vulnerable to mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Exercise has been linked to reduced depression symptoms and can serve as an adjunctive treatment, although anxiety may require additional interventions. Engaging in physical activity helps athletes manage stress, channel negative emotions, and promote resilience, although it may not significantly impact their mood. Moderators and mediators influencing exercise participation include time management skills, academic pressure, athletic season, social support, and institutional support. Effective time management and off-season periods can allow more time for exercise, while high academic demands can limit it. Social and institutional support also play crucial roles. Motivation, physical and mental health, perceived benefits, and injury status significantly affect exercise habits. Athletes motivated by personal goals or external rewards, who perceive benefits from extra exercise, are more likely to engage, whereas injury concerns can deter participation. These factors collectively shape the exercise behaviors of collegiate athletes.
