Understanding What Influences Physical Activity Intentions and Behaviors
Author Information
Author(s): Steve Amireault, Gaston Godin, Marie-Claude Vohl, Louis Pérusse
Primary Institution: Laval University, Québec, Canada
Hypothesis
What factors moderate the relationship between intention and behavior, as well as perceived behavioral control and behavior, in leisure-time physical activity?
Conclusion
Physical activity promotion programs should focus on increasing intentions and addressing factors that moderate the relationship between perceived behavioral control and behavior.
Supporting Evidence
- Intention and past behavior were strong predictors of actual physical activity.
- Age and annual income were found to moderate the intention-behavior relationship.
- Participants with higher income had a stronger perceived control over their physical activity.
Takeaway
This study looked at why some people say they want to be active but don't actually do it, finding that things like age and income can make a difference.
Methodology
Participants completed a psychosocial questionnaire and reported their physical activity behavior three months later.
Potential Biases
Self-reported measures may introduce bias in the assessment of physical activity.
Limitations
The study was conducted among well-educated volunteers, which may not represent the general population.
Participant Demographics
192 women and 108 men, aged 18 to 55, with a mean age of 37.7 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0003
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website