The relationship between physical exercise and social trust: evidence from the CGSS 2023 and the potential roles of social interaction, social support and class identity.

Introduction: Physical exercise (PE) may play an important role in enhancing residents' social trust; however, further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms underlying this association. This study examines the relationship between PE and social trust among Chinese residents and explores its potential mediating mechanisms, thereby providing empirical evidence for understanding the social psychological effects of exercise and promoting social harmony. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study used data from the nationally representative China General Social Survey (CGSS) 2023. After sample screening, 5,256 valid observations were retained. Multiple linear regression, ordered probit models, propensity score matching (PSM), and stepwise regression, were employed to examine the association between PE and social trust and to identify its underlying mechanisms. Results: The results showed that PE was positively associated with social trust among Chinese residents. This association varied across population subgroups, with stronger positive associations observed among female residents, young residents, and residents with a university education. Further analysis indicated that social interaction, social support, and class identity partially explained the association between PE and social trust. Conclusion: This study found that PE was positively associated with social trust among Chinese residents, and that social interaction, social support, and class identity may serve as potential mediating pathways in this association. These findings suggest that community-based PE may be considered a relevant public activity context for understanding residents' social trust, and may provide empirical reference for designing inclusive, group-oriented physical activity programs in which social trust is taken into account as an important social outcome.