Intrinsic mechanisms underlying urban–rural disparities in physical activity and their changes in China: evidence from China General Social Survey during 2010–2021

With rapid socioeconomic development in China, significant disparities have emerged between urban and rural residents exhibit in terms of participation, frequency, and forms of physical activity. These differences reflect not only the uneven distribution of economic, cultural, and social resources between urban and rural areas, but also variations in health literacy and lifestyles across different social groups. Based on data from the China General Social Survey (CGSS) for 2010 and 2021, this study employs a multidimensional regression analysis model to compare differences in physical exercise between urban and rural residents in China at these two time points. It also explores in depth the multiple factors underlying these differences and their interactions. The results indicate that urban residents consistently engaged in physical activity more frequently than rural residents, although the frequency of physical activity for both urban and rural residents increased from 2010 to 2021. Income level, years of education, frequency of social interaction, and internet use are all significantly associated with physical activity frequency, with varying trends across time and region. The positive effects of education and internet use gradually strengthened in rural areas, while the influence of social interaction frequency weakened in urban areas. It is recommended that public health policies pay greater attention to rural areas to promote balanced development of physical activity between urban and rural residents, thereby narrowing the urban–rural gap and contributing to the national fitness campaign and the realization of a Healthy China.