Revolutionizing physical education in China: A cross-sectional structural equation modeling study on digital health innovations, psychological well-being, and cognitive performance

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.