This study examines the impact of subjective well-being on university students' physical exercise behavior, with a focus on the mediating role of body esteem. Using a questionnaire survey, data on students' subjective well-being, body esteem, and exercise behavior were collected. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and the Bootstrap method were used for data analysis. The results indicate that subjective well-being does not directly influence physical exercise behavior. Instead, it enhances body esteem, which in turn promotes exercise participation, demonstrating a full mediation effect. These findings provide insights into the psychological mechanisms linking subjective well-being and exercise behavior and offer theoretical support for university sports education and mental health interventions. This study suggests that efforts to encourage physical exercise among university students should focus on improving body esteem. Strengthening body esteem can enhance students' exercise participation and overall psychological well-being. Future research could explore additional mediating or moderating factors, such as exercise self-efficacy and social support, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing university students' exercise behavior.

Yuanxiang Chen, Lee Khiam Jin. The Influence of Subjective Well-Being on University Students' Physical Exercise Behavior: The Mediating Role of Body Esteem. International Journal of Social Sciences and Economic Management (2025), Vol. 6, Issue 1: 36-44. https://doi.org/10.38007/IJSSEM.2025.060103.

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