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How Do Chinese Migrant Workers Avoid Leisure-Time Physical Inactivity?

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  • Zhanqiang Zhu

    (School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
    Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Public Security and Disaster, School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China)

  • Jiaying Fu

    (School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China)

  • Suhong Zhou

    (School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
    Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Public Security and Disaster, School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China)

Abstract

Migrant workers, vital for urban sustainable development, often exhibit leisure-time physical inactivity (LTPI). Few studies have examined LTPI and its constraints among migrant workers. This study aimed to identify the determinants of LTPI and its constraints among migrant workers. Guangzhou was used as a case study through a questionnaire survey of 26 communities ( n = 1024). Logistic regression assessed the impact of household registration on LTPI and its interaction effects. The determinants of LTPI among migrant workers were compared with those of the other groups. The study found a link between LTPI and the living environment among residents and migrant workers. Household registration influences LTPI through interactions with factors such as the number of sports facilities and community greetings. The main barriers to leisure-time physical activity among migrant workers were insufficient education, social capital, and green open spaces. This study discusses the underlying mechanisms and proposes measures to address LTPI among migrant workers.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhanqiang Zhu & Jiaying Fu & Suhong Zhou, 2025. "How Do Chinese Migrant Workers Avoid Leisure-Time Physical Inactivity?," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(10), pages 1-16, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:10:p:4700-:d:1660107
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    References listed on IDEAS

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