Physical exercise reduces bedtime procrastination in college students through a chain mediation of self-control and time management tendencies
A survey of 1,069 college students found that physical exercise negatively predicted bedtime procrastination (β = -0.158, p < 0.01). Self-control and time management tendencies mediated this relationship in a chain pathway: physical exercise → self-control → time management tendency → bedtime procrastination.
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Physical exercise reduces bedtime procrastination in college students through a chain mediation of self-control and time management tendencies The current body of evidence comprises 1 study. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 34/100 (low).
The Claim
Physical exercise reduces bedtime procrastination in college students through a chain mediation of self-control and time management tendencies
This conclusion is most relevant to: College students from four universities in China.
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸The relationship between physical exercise and sleep procrastination in college students: the chain mediating role of self-control and time management tendencies. (Frontiers in psychology, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Physical exercise increases self-control
- ▸Higher self-control improves time management tendencies
- ▸Better time management tendencies reduce bedtime procrastination
- ▸Result: Physical exercise indirectly reduces bedtime procrastination via this chain
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸College students from four universities in China
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Cross-sectional design prevents causal inference
- ▸Self-report measures may introduce response bias
- ▸Sample limited to Chinese college students, limiting generalizability
Frequently Asked Questions
Does physical exercise directly reduce bedtime procrastination?▼
Yes, the study found a significant negative direct effect (β = -0.158, p < 0.01), but the effect is partially mediated by self-control and time management.
What is the chain mediation pathway?▼
The pathway is: physical exercise → self-control → time management tendency → bedtime procrastination. This means exercise boosts self-control, which improves time management, which in turn reduces procrastination at bedtime.
How many students were surveyed?▼
1,069 college students from four universities participated in the study.
What questionnaires were used?▼
The study used the Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3), Bedtime Procrastination Scale (BPS), Self-Control Scale (SCS), and Time Management Disposition Scale (TMD).
References
- 1.Bu J, Yin Y, Yu L. “The relationship between physical exercise and sleep procrastination in college students: the chain mediating role of self-control and time management tendencies..” Frontiers in psychology, 2026. PMID: 42396102 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2026.1838723