Table 1_Physical exercise-induced mental health benefits in future physicians: a dual-chain mediation of peer support and professional identity formation.docx

ObjectiveThis study investigates the dual chain mediating roles of peer support and professional identity formation in the relationship between physical exercise and mental health among medical students.
MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted on 420 medical students in China, using structural equation modeling (SEM) to test hypothesized pathways.
ResultsExercise frequency demonstrated a significant direct association with better mental health (β = 0.28, P < 0.001). Two distinct mediating pathways were supported: (1) a significant serial mediation chain (exercise → peer support → professional identity → mental health; β = 0.044, P < 0.001) and (2) a significant parallel mediation chain (exercise → professional identity → mental health; β = 0.074, P < 0.001). Multi-group analysis revealed that the mediating role of professional identity was significantly stronger in clinical-year students (e.g., path from exercise to professional identity: Δβ = 0.10, P = 0.005).
LimitationsThe cross-sectional design precludes causal inference, and the cultural and professional specificity of the sample may affect generalizability.
ConclusionThese findings highlight the complex psychosocial mechanisms through which exercise is associated with enhanced mental health in future physicians, with implications for targeted intervention design.