Objective To explore the physical health characteristics of overweight and obese college students and propose targeted intervention measures. Methods In September 2023, physical fitness tests were conducted on senior college students. A total of 220 college students with overweight or obese test results were selected as the research subjects, and their physical health indicators were analyzed. Results In terms of vital capacity and standing long jump, most overweight and obese college students achieved a passing grade. In sit-and-reach test, most overweight college students achieved an excellent grade, while most obese college students achieved a passing grade. In pull-ups (male)/sit-ups (female) and 50 m sprint, most overweight college students achieved a passing grade, while most obese college students failed. In 1000 m run (male)/800 m run (female), most overweight and obese college students failed. Conclusion Overweight and obese college students generally achieve passing grades in vital capacity, standing long jump, sprint and long-distance running, with few excellent grades, and have a high health risk. Therefore, colleges and universities should adopt comprehensive and effective health intervention measures to help overweight and obese college students improve their physical health and promote their all-round development.