Analysis of the characteristics and differences in exercise participation among seven occupational categories of female workers in China-a cross-sectional survey of 31 provinces across the country.

BACKGROUND: Understanding Physical exercise behavioral variations across female occupations is crucial for tailoring interventions and promoting occupational health. This study evaluates physical exercise rates, preferences, motivations, and barriers among Chinese working women. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 3,740 female participants across seven occupational categories in 31 Chinese provinces. Physical exercise behavior was assessed using the Physical Exercise Rating Scale; exercise types were classified according to China's National Fitness Guidelines; exercise motivation was developed based on Self-Determination Theory; and multi-level participation barriers were measured under the socioecological framework for women's physical activity. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, Chi-square tests, and multiple linear regression. RESULTS: (1) Exercise intensity per session was generally low, with significant occupational differences in intensity (F = 3.818, p < 0.01), duration (F = 5.222, p < 0.001), and weekly frequency (F = 8.561, p < 0.001). (2) Leisure activities dominated, though preferences varied significantly by occupation (all p < 0.01): civil servants and Educators favored team sports and traditional national sports; migrant workers highly preferred dance and gymnastics; and corporate employees led in outdoor sports, whereas farmers led in strength training. (3) Physical fitness was a universal motivator with significant occupational differences (p < 0.01), whereas fat reduction, though widely endorsed, did not differ significantly across occupations (p > 0.05). Corporate employees showed the weakest motivations for socialization, stress relief, and family time, whereas migrant workers exercised primarily for socialization. (4) Lack of perseverance constrained most women. Migrant workers faced only time limitations (β = -0.365, p = 0.001), while civil servants uniquely encountered policy barriers (β = 0.069, p < 0.05). The urban built environment positively promoted physical exercise across all urban occupations. CONCLUSION: Occupational resources, labor types, and workplace cultures stratify physical exercise participation among Chinese women. Public-sector employees enjoy institutional resource advantages, while rural and migrant women face structural deficits. We should start from the workplace and promote differentiated and compensatory public sports services based on occupational characteristics.