Associations between physical activity participation and different types of sports consumption expenditures among older adults: a cross-sectional study.

Background: As populations age, promoting physical activity among older adults becomes increasingly critical for healthy aging. Sport consumption, covering spending on products, services, and rehabilitation, may play a key role in shaping exercise behaviors, but its influence remains underexamined. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 395 older adults in Wuhan, China measured expenditures in three sport consumption categories and analyzed their associations with exercise frequency, duration, and perceived intensity. Socioeconomic variables were also considered. Results: Greater sport consumption was significantly associated with higher levels of physical activity. Among respondents, 49.4% exercised 3-7 times per week, and 51.9% reported high-intensity activity. Those spending over 1,000 RMB annually on sports products or rehabilitation services were more likely to engage in frequent and vigorous exercise. Income and education positively correlated with consumption levels; however, 60.5% of respondents spent ≤500 RMB on sports products, and 89.4% on participation services. Conclusion: Sport-related spending reflects not only financial capacity but also a proactive health orientation. Promoting active aging requires policies that enhance accessibility through public facilities, subsidies, and health education tailored to older adults, especially those with lower income and education levels.