Physical fitness and health-related quality of life in nursing students: a cross-sectional study with a gender perspective

Abstract

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a key indicator of well-being among university students, who are often exposed to stress and unhealthy lifestyles. Students enrolled in nursing programs represent a specific subgroup within the university population, characterized by high academic demands and early exposure to health-related knowledge and practices. Although higher physical fitness (PF) levels have been associated with better HRQoL, the contribution of specific PF components and potential gender differences has been insufficiently explored. This study aimed to examine the association between PF and HRQoL in nursing students, with a focus on gender differences and the role of individual PF components across HRQoL dimensions.