The effect of social networking sites on resistance training behaviour among college students: application of a mixed model based on the theory of planned behaviour

Background: The purpose of this study is to explore the effect of social networking sites (SNS) on college students’ participation in resistance training, with a specific focus on the mediating role of planning and emotion in bridging the intention-behaviour gap. Methods Three hundred fifty-six college students (215 males and 141 females, with an average age of 21.37 ± 2.40 years) from 17 universities in China who regularly participate in resistance training were surveyed via questionnaires. The data was analysed using the Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) in AMOS 20.0, and the planned behaviour mixed model was tested using a structural equation model. Results Three main findings emerged from the study: 1) SNS had a positive effect on college students' participation in resistance training; 2) Intention and behaviour towards resistance training among college students were influenced by planning and positive emotion as mediators; 3) College students' participation in resistance training is positively affected by rational cognition. Conclusions The mixed model of planned behaviour examines how SNS influences college students' intentions and behaviour toward resistance training. By combining the advantages of rational thinking with basic emotional instincts, this model provides a more accurate prediction of college students' intentions and behaviours in resistance training.