The effectiveness of digital platforms for developing physical culture during the pandemic in the PRC

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional avenues for physical activity, prompting the rapid adoption of digital fitness platforms in the People’s Republic of China (PRC). This study explores the effectiveness of these platforms in sustaining and promoting physical culture during lockdowns and beyond. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative data from a cross-sectional survey of 762 participants and qualitative insights from 30 semi-structured interviews and three focus groups. Results reveal a significant increase in digital platform usage during peak lockdown periods, with mean weekly usage rising from 1.82 sessions pre-pandemic to 3.25 during the pandemic. Self-reported
physical activity levels improved correspondingly. Users highlighted the convenience, accessibility, and motivational aspects of features such as live-streamed classes, gamification elements, and virtual communities. However, barriers such as limited internet access, lack of professional supervision, and difficulties in sustaining long-term engagement were noted. The study underscores the potential of digital platforms to bridge geographical and social divides in fitness engagement, provided challenges of infrastructure, quality control, and user retention are addressed. The findings contribute to understanding how technology can integrate into broader public health strategies, suggesting a hybrid model of online and offline fitness could define the future of physical culture in the PRC.