The Effects of Body Image and Physical Fitness on Academic Performance of Chinese Adolescent: A Mediating Role of Mental Health

This study examined the association between body image, physical fitness, and academic performance and investigated the roles of mental health and self-perception bias. Data were obtained from the China Education Panel Survey, with a sample of 7,087 adolescents (3,517 boys, 3,570 girls). Results indicated that body image and physical fitness predicted academic performance. Mental health mediated the relationship between body image and academic performance but not the link between physical fitness and academic performance. Body image directly affected boys’ academic performance and indirectly affected girls’ academic performance through mental health. The mediating effects of mental health were stronger for adolescents with self-perception bias. The study highlights the need for more interventions that improve physical fitness and foster healthy body image perceptions among adolescents to enhance their academic performance.