The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationships between the types of motivation, basic psychological needs and factors related to a healthy lifestyle, as well as finding the differences based on gender, in university students. The data was collected from a questionnaire given to a sample of 218 individuals, 79 men and 139 women between the ages of 18 and 32 (M= 20,80 y DT= 2,12). The results show that the self-determined forms of motivation were significant, positively related with basic physiological needs, and with healthy lifestyles variables, but they were significant and negatively related with smoking habits. Additionally, men had a higher level in both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation compared to the women, as well as higher levels in basic psychological needs, eating habits, sleeping habits and physical activity. Encouraging motivational strategies to promote a healthy lifestyle in students is highlighted.