Disparities in sports participation behavior among Chinese residents

As an important way to improve national health, foster social harmony, and facilitate economic growth, physical activities have emerged as the focus of the government and the entire society in China. However, the popularity of physical activity has been uneven. Gender, urban and rural areas, social and economic status and other factors account for the disparities in sports participation. Therefore, identifying and understanding the mechanisms that contribute to these disparities is crucial for formulating fair and effective sports promotion policies. This paper employs data from the CGSS2021 National Comprehensive Survey to delve into the social structural factors influencing sports participation, especially the specific effects of gender disparities and urban-rural disparities in sports participation and sports watching behavior as to provide empirical support for formulating more accurate and inclusive sports development strategies. The study discloses the following results: (1) A comparison of the physical activity levels of men and women reveals that the former are less inclined to engage in physical activity and more likely to watch sports events; (2) With the education level ascends, there is a concomitant augmentation in both participation in physical activity and in watching sports events; (3) Rural males have the lowest likelihood of engaging in physical activity and watching sports events than other groups; (4) The education level exerts the most significant influence on the motivation for physical activity in male group; (5) Males have a greater propensity to participate in physical activity after watching sports events, and those who participate in physical activity are more prone to watch sports events. To boost sports participation for all, it is indispensable to formulate detailed sports policies to meet the specific needs of different groups. Consider gender equality and balanced allocation of urban-rural resources, thereby promoting the health of Chinese residents and the overall well-being of society.