Physical Activity and Sleep Quality in Relation to Blood Pressure Among Young Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Blood pressure is a key indicator of cardiovascular health and is strongly influenced by lifestyle-related factors, particularly physical activity and sleep quality. Insufficient physical activity and poor sleep quality have been associated with impaired blood pressure regulation through neurohormonal and metabolic mechanisms; however, empirical evidence examining these relationships among young adults, especially university students, remains limited.
Objective: This study aimed to examine the relationship between physical activity, sleep quality, and blood pressure among young adult students at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta.
Methods: A quantitative observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted involving 100 students aged 18–40 years. Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and blood pressure was measured using a digital sphygmomanometer. Data were analyzed using Spearman correlation, with systolic blood pressure as the primary outcome.
Results: The findings demonstrated a significant negative correlation between physical activity and systolic blood pressure (r = –0.481; p < 0.001). Sleep quality also showed a significant negative correlation with systolic blood pressure (r = –0.257; p = 0.010).
Conclusion: Higher levels of physical activity and better sleep quality were associated with lower and more controlled blood pressure among university students. These results highlight the importance of promoting active lifestyles and healthy sleep habits as early preventive strategies for cardiovascular risk in young adult populations.