Physical activity, emotional intelligence, weight bias internalization, and body image concerns among emerging adult women in China

Exposure to idealized body images online has led to the internalization of unrealistic beauty standards among young women, resulting in decreased self-body satisfaction, which can affect individuals’ well-being and career prospects. In this study we used a survey to examine the link between physical activity and the body image concerns of 355 women aged 20–29 years, who were living in Changsha City, China. Analysis of the data revealed a negative correlation between physical activity and body image concerns. Furthermore, weight bias internalization and emotional intelligence were identified as mediating factors in the association between physical activity and body image concerns. Specifically, women who engaged in more physical activity scored lower on weight bias internalization and higher on emotional intelligence, and exhibited lower levels of body image concerns. To address these concerns, healthy aesthetic values should be promoted on social media, and governments and families should encourage physical activity among young women.