Self-regulation and physical activity: the relationship in older adults

Abstract

Objectives: To examine the relationship between self-regulation and physical activity (PA) in older adults.

Methods: A convenience sample (N=284) of older adults (M age=70.4 years) was surveyed.

Results: Multivariate analyses controlling for self-efficacy and socio-demographic variables revealed that using self-regulatory strategies more extensively, being male, and having better self-report health were significantly related to greater PA engagement. Supportive of a social cognitive perspective, results were also consistent with mediation, where self-regulation partially mediated the relationship between self-efficacy and PA.

Conclusions: Further examination of these relationships using prospective and experimental designs is recommended. Practical implications of these findings are discussed.