Identifying Physical and Mental Health Characteristics in University Students: An Observational Study

This study explored physical and mental health among 2,947 university students, using principal component analysis and K-means clustering, identifying 3 profiles: physically vulnerable (28%), mentally vulnerable (26%), and physically and mentally healthy (46%). Physically vulnerable students had lower fitness and a higher body mass index (p < 0.05;ES = 0.21–2.22), while mentally vulnerable students reported higher anxiety, depression, and poorer quality of life (p < 0.05;ES = 0.72–2.30). Physical activity (PA) motivations differed across profiles (p < 0.05;ES = 0.01–0.75). Additionally, women placed greater value on psychological benefits, whereas men focused on physical benefits (p < 0.05;ES = 0.10–0.54). This study highlights the heterogeneity of health and motivations among students, underscoring the importance of tailored interventions to promote PA.