Abstract

Physical exercise tailored for sedentary students acts as a powerful, positive intervention that significantly enhances mental health and fosters long-term, self-sustaining wellness habits. Regular, structured activity not only improves physical health but acts as a mediator that boosts self-efficacy, increases intrinsic motivation, and fosters a positive mood. These improvements create a feedback loop-where increased mental toughness and better self-appraisal encourage continued activity-breaking the cycle of sedentary behavior and mental distress.  Mental health challenges among university students have become a critical public health concern, with increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. The severity of this issue is further underscored by rising suicide rates, particularly among vulnerable demographics, highlighting an urgent need for effective, accessible, and multifaceted intervention strategies that extend beyond traditional talk therapy. While physical activity is widely recognized for its psychological benefits, students majoring in physical education face unique stressors, including performance pressure, injury risks, and academic-athletic balance, which may undermine these advantages.