The relationship between physical exercise and sleep procrastination in college students: the chain mediating role of self-control and time management tendencies

ObjectiveThis study aims to investigate the direct effect of physical exercise on bedtime procrastination among college students, as well as the mediating roles of self-control and time management tendencies.MethodsA total of 1,069 college students from four universities were surveyed using an online questionnaire. The instruments included the Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3), the Bedtime Procrastination Scale (BPS), the Self-Control Scale (SCS), and the Time Management Disposition Scale (TMD).Results(1) Physical exercise was significantly negatively correlated with bedtime procrastination (p < 0.01) and significantly positively correlated with both self-control and time management tendencies (p < 0.01). Self-control and time management tendencies were also positively correlated with each other (p < 0.01), and both were negatively correlated with bedtime procrastination (p < 0.01). (2) Physical exercise had a significant negative predictive effect on bedtime procrastination (β = −0.158, t = −5.229, p < 0.01). Self-control and time management tendencies each played independent mediating roles in the relationship between physical exercise and bedtime procrastination. (3) A significant chain mediation pattern was observed, suggesting that physical exercise was indirectly associated with bedtime procrastination via self-control and time management tendencies (β = 0.058, t = 3.014, p < 0.01).ConclusionPhysical exercise significantly negatively predicts bedtime procrastination among college students. Self-control and time management tendencies serve as significant mediators in this relationship, forming a chain mediation pathway: Physical Exercise → Self-Control → Time Management Tendency → Bedtime Procrastination. These findings provide a theoretical basis for developing targeted behavioural interventions to improve sleep habits among university students.