Objectives: This study aims to investigate the complex relationship between body composition, physical fitness, and academic performance in college students, focusing on the impact of lifestyle choices related to sleep, diet, and physical activity on their well-being and academic success. Methods: Involving 405 participants, the study explores the associations between handgrip strength (HGS) and physical dimensions (height and weight) with academic performance, as measured by GPA. It seeks to understand how these physical health indicators correlate with cognitive functions in the academic context. Results: Contrary to conventional assumptions that link physical strength with higher cognitive function, our findings reveal an inverse relationship between HGS and GPA. This relationship persists even when controlling for height, weight, and sex, suggesting that factors contributing to academic performance are more complex and multifaceted. Conclusion: The study concludes that there is a counterintuitive relationship between physical strength and academic performance. It underscores the importance of adopting a holistic approach to student health and well-being, which encompasses not only physical but also emotional, psychological, and academic dimensions. Implications: These findings highlight the critical need for educational institutions and policymakers to consider a whole-person approach in their student well-being programs. Such an approach should promote balanced development across all domains to maximize academic success and overall health in college students.