Examining the moderating role of physical fitness on the relationship between ice and snow sports participation and health outcomes in China

BACKGROUND: The study examines how ice and snow sports participation, fitness, perceived social support, and access to winter sports facilities affect health outcomes in China. Understanding winter sports' health benefits is essential for improving public health in colder parts of China, where their popularity is rising. METHODS: A sample of 875 Chinese from various regions was used to examine variable relationships using structural equation modeling (SEM) and route analysis. RESULTS: Health outcomes, fitness, winter sports facilities, and ice and snow sports participation were positively associated. A significant correlation (β = 0.22, p < 0.001) was established between ice and snow sports participation and physical fitness, highlighting the impact of winter sports on health. Perceived social support for winter sports improves cold weather tolerance (β = 0.27, p < 0.001), emphasizing the role of social networks in resilience. The correlation between physical fitness and access to winter sports facilities (β = 0.31, p < 0.001) highlights the importance of physical talents in winter sports participation. Positive associations between physical fitness (β = 0.25, p < 0.001) and winter sports social support (β = 0.19, p < 0.001) suggest favorable health and well-being impacts. Physical fitness moderates the health benefits of ice and snow sports participation (β = 0.12, p < 0.05), whereas perceived social support for winter sports mediates the effect (β = 0.09, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The findings emphasize the importance of supporting ice and snow activities and providing infrastructure to promote health. Physical fitness and improved health outcomes on social support can improve winter sports benefits. Public health initiatives may leverage this information to encourage active living and enhance health.