Linking social features of fitness apps with physical activity among Chinese users: Evidence from self-reported and self-tracked behavioral data

Highlights：

• The ubiquitous internet services, especially mobile internet services, provide great potential for promoting physical activity.

• The results provide compelling support for the social support, social comparison, and attitudinal mechanisms.

• Informational support was indirectly associated with stronger exercise intention and higher levels of self-tracked exercise via the mediation of attitudes towards physical activity.

• Esteem support was directly associated with stronger exercise intention and higher levels of self-tracked exercise.

• While downward comparison decreased attitudes towards exercise, upward comparison enhances exercise intention.