Fitness Buddy Program to Boost Physical Activity in University Students

This study explores whether a peer-supported "fitness buddy" program can help first-year university students increase physical activity levels and improve mental well-being. Over 12 weeks, participants will form small exercise groups, choose enjoyable activities (such as jogging, cycling, or yoga), and support each other through shared goals and regular check-ins. A professional coach will offer weekly guidance on exercise safety, injury prevention, and motivation strategies, but the actual workouts will be conducted by the students. The investigators aim to determine if this peer-based approach helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, while boosting self-esteem and social connectedness. Students in a control group will receive usual campus resources without structured group support. By comparing outcomes at the start, after the 12-week program, and again at follow-up, the study will assess whether peer-led, knowledge-supported exercise can sustainably enhance both physical and mental health during the critical transition into university life.

NCT Number	NCT06795061
Lead Sponsor	Jinan University Guangzhou
Conditions	Physical Inactivity, Psychological Stress, Mental Well-being
Enrollment	200 participants
Start Date	2025-01-20
Primary Completion	2025-04-20 (estimated)
Study Completion	2025-05-20 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2025-01-29