Investigating the role of Chinese sports media in shaping young adults’ exercise habits through the lens of the health belief model

Fitness influencers and government-led efforts in Chinese sports media are associated with higher reported motivation to exercise despite unrealistic body standards and accessibility inequities. This study helps policymakers, media strategists, and public health experts connect media influence and behavioral health to improve digital fitness initiatives' media-driven health promotion. Future research should explore AI-driven personalized fitness interventions leveraging Chinese sports media analytics.