Determinants of Community Sports Facility Utilization: Insights from Structural Equation Modeling

Community sports facilities play a crucial role in providing residents with opportunities for physical activity, with their supply-demand capacity serving as a key indicator of effectiveness. However, challenges such as limited facility availability, inadequate infrastructure, insufficient service provision, and suboptimal spatial planning have hindered participation in sports activities among both urban and rural populations. This study delves into the complex dynamics influencing the supply and demand for community sports facilities in JiangBei New District, Nanjing, Jiangsu province. In this study, grounded in the principles of comprehensive community development, employs structural equation modeling to investigate the factors affecting the supply capacity of community sports facilities from the resident’s perspective. The research identifies four key dimensions that shape the supply-demand capacity of these facilities: spatial distribution, residents' exercise behaviors, needs, and satisfaction. The findings reveal that residents' needs and spatial distribution have a direct impact on exercise behaviors, with spatial distribution being the most significant factor influencing resident satisfaction. Based on these insights, the study offers strategic recommendations aimed at optimizing the supply capacity of community sports facilities, thereby enhancing community engagement in physical activities. Future research should explore longitudinal effects and community-specific adaptations to further refine strategies for promoting active lifestyles.