The Effect of Physical Activity on Loneliness: The Mediating Role of Self-Compassion

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine a mediation model in which exercise habits, as a form of physical activity, reduce loneliness through self-compassion. A total of 300 Japanese adults (mean age 60.1) completed the Exercise Habit Strength Scale, the Self-Compassion Scale, and the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3). Results of the mediation analysis indicated a significant indirect effect, whereby physical activity enhanced self-compassion, which in turn reduced loneliness. These findings suggest that physical activity affects loneliness through the mediating role of self-compassion, supporting a full mediation model.