How Physical Activity, Chronotype, And Sleep Quality Shape Academic Performance In Physically Active University Students

PURPOSE: This study examines how physical activity, sleep quality, and chronotype collectively influence academic performance in physically active university students, offering insights into cognitive outcomes in physically demanding academic environments. METHODS: Fifty-eight physical education students completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ). Academic performance was measured using GPA. Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression analyses were conducted using SPSS. RESULTS: A moderate negative correlation was found between sleep quality and GPA (r = -0.37), with good sleepers (PSQI ≤5) averaging a GPA of 3.26, while poor sleepers (PSQI >5) averaged 2.90. Chronotype significantly influenced academic performance: definitely evening-type students had the highest GPA (3.57), while moderately morning-types had the lowest (2.71). Evening-types also reported the best sleep quality (PSQI = 5.00) and the highest physical activity levels (3792 MET-minutes/week), compared to morning-types who showed lower activity levels. Although physical activity didn’t directly correlate with GPA, the higher activity levels in evening-type students, combined with their better sleep quality and academic success, suggest a complex interaction between these factors. Multiple regression analysis indicated that sleep quality and chronotype together explained 45% of the variance in GPA. This highlights the significant impact of sleep and circadian alignment on academic performance. CONCLUSIONS: Chronotype and sleep quality play pivotal roles in academic performance among physically active students. While physical activity did not directly predict GPA, evening-types showed higher activity levels, better sleep, and stronger academic outcomes. These results suggest that aligning physical activity with one's chronotype may enhance cognitive and physical performance, underscoring the need to consider circadian rhythms, physical activity, and sleep in academic success. Supported by: Qatar University Internal Grant (QUCG-CED-24/25-495)