ACTIVE: Journal of Physical Education, Sport, Health and Recreation
Vol. 15 No. 2 (2026)

Relationship Between Physical Activity and Stress Among UNNES Sports Science Students

Muhammmad Ismail Abdul Fatah (Universitas Negeri Semarang)
Agus Darmawan (Universitas Negeri Semarang)



Article Info

Publish Date
24 Jul 2026

Abstract

Final-semester students are vulnerable to accumulated psychological stress from demanding academic obligations, including final assignments and workforce transition preparation, making stress a serious threat to well-being. Exercise and physical activity have long been known to mitigate this stress through biological and neuropsychological pathways. This study examines the relationship between daily physical activity intensity and psychological well-being among final-semester students at the Faculty of Sport Science. A quantitative correlational design was used, involving 200 respondents selected through random sampling from the Faculty of Sport Science class of 2022. Physical activity was measured using the IPAQ instrument and categorized by MET-minutes/week as low (below 600), medium (600-3000), and high (above 3000), while stress was assessed using the DASS-21, ranging from normal to very high. Data were analyzed using Spearman correlation and Chi-Square tests. Results showed a strong negative correlation between the variables (rs = -0.692; p < 0.001), with strong association strength (Gamma = -0.850; p < 0.001). The distribution of stress categories differed significantly between activity groups (χ² = 117.784; df = 8; p < 0.001). Students with higher physical activity had significantly better psychological well-being, reinforcing the need for active movement promotion strategies as mental health interventions in higher education.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

peshr

Publisher

Subject

Other

Description

Journal is a peer-reviewed, four-color, professional journal. Continuously published since 2012, Active serves as an authoritative, professional source for educators in physical education, sports, health, and recreation in all settings. It provides the information needed to assist students and ...