Exploring the multi-level correlates of sports participation among Chinese adults based on ecological models and hierarchical regression: evidence from national survey dataset

Abstract Background The numerous benefits of adult participation in sports are widely acknowledged. However, the sports participation (SP) rate among Chinese adults remains low. Moreover, the correlates of SP across countries may differ significantly compared to the existing literature. In addition, as a form of health behavior, SP is shaped by multiple factors at both individual and environmental levels, as outlined by the ecological model. This study systematically incorporates variables across these levels to explore the multidimensional correlates of SP among Chinese adults. Methods This study utilized data from the 2021 China General Social Survey (CGSS), screening 1,613 valid samples. The dataset included the dependent variable-sport participation and 41 independent variables across seven dimensions ranging from the individual level to the environmental level. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, the univariate analysis, and hierarchical regression analysis. Results In the final model, eight variables were significantly associated with sport participation. At the individual physiological level, age (p