"It's in my life": the significance and consumption of lifestyle sports participation among Chinese youth

Introduction Sports have become an indispensable part of daily life, and an increasing range of lifestyle sports, such as frisbee, flag football, and surfskate, are gradually becoming familiar to and popular among the Chinese youth. This study examines the consumption practices of Chinese youth in lifestyle sports through the analytical lens of Social Practice Theory, highlighting their distinctive cultural significance for this age group. Methods This study utilized semi-structured interviews and participant observation to conduct research in Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province, China. Results The findings revealed that participation in these sports serves not only as a form of consumption but also as a way for youth to break the discipline of life, shaping distinctions in taste while building tribalism and social interaction. Discussion The study further explores the distinctive consumption traits of contemporary Chinese youth and underscore the social value of lifestyle sports. By situating these practices within the framework of Social Practice Theory, the study broadens the scope of sports consumption research and offers nuanced insight into youth behavior and consumption patterns amid China's ongoing social transformation.