The value of habit strength for mental health in the domain of physical activity behavior

Background: There is compelling evidence for the benefits of physical activity on mental health. The present study examines the mediating role of habit strength in the relationship between physical activity, psychological well-being, and transdiagnostic factors associated with anxiety-related disorders, including anxiety sensitivity, distress tolerance, and intolerance of uncertainty. Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed in the present study. Self-report scales of physical activity behavior, habit strength, psychological well-being, intolerance of uncertainty, distress tolerance, and anxiety sensitivity were employed with an online questionnaire. The sample consisted of 232 undergraduate and graduate university students. Results: Mediation analyses indicated that habit strength emerged as a significant mediator in the relation between physical activity and both well-being and transdiagnostic factors. Indirect effects through habit strength were significant across all models. However, physical activity alone was not significantly associated with psychological well-being or transdiagnostic factors. Conclusion: Our findings underscore the importance of consistent engagement in and habit strength of physical activity for reducing transdiagnostic risk factors and enhancing mental health. Building on present findings, future research should explore the mechanisms underlying the link between physical activity and mental health outcomes with longitudinal and experimental methods.