Revolutionizing physical education in China: A cross-sectional structural equation modeling study on digital health...

The rapid expansion of digital health technologies has prompted questions about their influence on cognition. This study investigates how physical activity, psychological well-being, technology readiness, and digital health innovations contribute to cognitive performance, with self-efficacy as a mediator and perceived usefulness as a moderator. A stratified sample of 1025 Chinese physical education students completed questionnaires, and Structural Equation Modeling was applied. SEM examined direct and indirect relationships, while mediation and moderation analysis examined how self-efficacy and perceived usefulness affected associations. Digital health technology engagement, self-efficacy, psychological well-being, and technology readiness improve cognitive outcomes. A mediation analysis suggests that self-efficacy influences digital health technology use, psychological well-being, and cognitive function. Moderation analysis shows that perceived usefulness amplifies relationships among technology use, exercise involvement, and cognitive outcomes. The findings suggest adding digital health tools, physical exercise, and self-efficacy support to physical education programs to boost psychological and cognitive engagement.