INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to test the effectiveness of an emotional intelligence (EI) program based on the tripartite model, combining theory and practical physical activity for health training students. METHOD: This pilot study was conducted with 68 students between October 2020 and October 2021. One group received the EI training intervention ( RESULTS: Results showed a significant increase in emotion expression, emotion identification, stress management, emotional management, emotional abilities, sociability and emotional intelligence. No significant change was observed in the control group. DISCUSSION: These findings suggest that EI can be improved with physical activities and open possibilities to include EI program in health training program.