Direct and indirect effects of physical exercise on life satisfaction and quality of life in Chinese adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic

PE alleviates emotional distress and enhances subjective well-being in adolescents through dual pathways, underscoring its value as a low-cost intervention during public health crises. Findings advocate integrating structured physical activity into school-based mental health programs to foster resilience. Longitudinal studies are needed to validate causal mechanisms and optimize exercise protocols for diverse adolescent populations.