The Effects of Moderate-Intensity Physical Activity, Perceived Stress Levels, and Subjective Health Perception on Quality of Life in Women of Childbearing Age : Based on the 2019–2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

The purpose of this study was to examine the structural relationships among physical activity of at least moderate intensity, perceived stress levels, subjective health perception, and quality of life in women of childbearing age, using data from the 2019–2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. A total of 2,569 women of childbearing age were included in the analysis. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to examine the relationships among the variables, and mediation analysis was performed using the SPSS PROCESS macro (version 4.2). The mediating effects were analyzed using Model 6, which includes two mediators. The results revealed that moderate-intensity physical activity, rather than high-intensity physical activity, was significantly associated with quality of life. While moderate-intensity physical activity did not have a direct effect on quality of life, it influenced quality of life indirectly through the mediating roles of perceived stress levels and subjective health perception. These findings suggest that moderate-intensity physical activity is more suitable for improving the quality of life in women of childbearing age and highlight the need for physical activities that encompass both mental and physical health benefits. This evidence can serve as a foundation for health management policies and the development of targeted exercise programs for women of childbearing age.