As thousands of high school students prepare for their HSC exams, new research reveals Australian teens aren’t reaping the same stress-relieving benefits of exercise as their global peers.
The study involving more than 600,000 students across 56 countries, published in the Frontiers in Sports and Active Living journal, found that those students who were more physically active generally reported lower levels of pre-exam anxiety.
But Australia stood out as one of the few exceptions. Despite high rates of sport and recreation, 67 per cent of physically active Australian students still reported high anxiety before exams — only slightly less than the 70 per cent of inactive students.
By contrast, countries such as the Czech Republic recorded far lower anxiety levels (35 per cent) among students regardless of activity level, while nations like Brazil and Malaysia reported rates above 80 per cent.
Dr Andrew Sortwell, a co-author from the study who is also part of the Leadership and Research team at Sydney Catholic Schools, said the findings suggest cultural and educational pressures may outweigh the stress-relieving benefits of sport and recreation.
“While exercise is certainly beneficial and a proven protective factor for mental health, Australia’s unique education pressures may mean it is not enough on its own to reduce exam anxiety,” Dr Sortwell said.
“We need to consider a more holistic approach to tackling exam stress, combining physical activity with healthy routines, emotional support, and realistic expectations, if we are to truly support students’ wellbeing.”
Year 12 student April Chappell, from Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College Kensington, is juggling her studies and playing competitive sport.
She said while she is usually well-prepared and calm before exams, managing her competing demands is a challenge.
“Sometimes lack of sleep or a heavy schedule can make me irritable in class,” she said.
“People don’t always see how much time and effort goes into balancing competitive sport with study. It takes a lot of preparation and time management to make it work.”
“I want to succeed and do my best. I enjoy the competition with others, and I’m motivated to come first in my subjects.”
Oscar Moore, a Year 12 student at St Vincent’s College Ashfield, said while exercise and being helps manage his study pressures, spending time with friends or watching a movie is just as important.
“In the days leading up to big exams, I usually feel underprepared and stressed, no matter how much work I’ve done,” he said.
“Most of the pressure comes from myself. I want to do well because I know I’m capable.”
Dr Sortwell said the findings of the study are a timely reminder that managing exam anxiety requires a ‘team effort’ between schools, families, and students themselves.
“With the right balance of physical activity, emotional support, and healthy lifestyle habits, we can help young people face exams with greater confidence and calm,” he said.
