Author(s): CIORCIARI, A., ROKLICER, R., MONTELAGHI, A., CARRARO, A., Institution: FREE UNIVERSITY OF BOZEN-BOLZANO, Country: ITALY, Abstract-ID: 1281

INTRODUCTION:
University students are exposed to high academic and psychosocial demands and commonly report elevated stress levels, high sedentary behavior (SB), and poor sleep quality. Physical activity (PA) is widely recognized as an effective strategy to improve mental well-being, and sleep represents a lifestyle factor that both influences and is influenced by PA and stress regulation. Interventions addressing these behaviors in isolation may overlook their reciprocal interactions. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of a multicomponent lifestyle intervention, on PA, SB, sleep–wake quality (SWQ), and perceived stress in university students.
METHODS:
A controlled pre–post design was employed. University students were allocated to an intervention group (INT) or a control group (CTRL). Over eight weeks, the INT group participated in a structured program combining educational webinars (PA, sleep, and active breaks), supervised fitness and postural exercise sessions, outdoor activities, on-campus active breaks, and socially engaging events, supported by personalized coaching on PA and sleep hygiene. PA and SB were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, SWQ using the Mini Sleep Questionnaire, and perceived stress using the Perceived Stress Scale. Pre–post changes were analyzed using mixed ANOVA models.
RESULTS:
Groups were comparable at baseline. After the intervention, the INT group showed a significant reduction in sedentary time (p < 0.001) and a trend toward increased moderate-intensity PA. Importantly, sleep–wake quality improved, with a significant enhancement in wake rhythm stability (p = 0.017). These changes were accompanied by a significant reduction in perceived stress (p = 0.027). No meaningful changes were observed in the CTRL group.
CONCLUSION:
This preliminary study suggests that a multicomponent, PA-centered lifestyle intervention can simultaneously improve SWQ and reduce stress while decreasing SB in university students. Findings highlight the importance of integrating sleep within PA promotion strategies and support the adoption of holistic, lifestyle-based interventions to enhance student well-being in academic settings.