Social-cognitive predictors of physical exercise adherence: three longitudinal studies in rehabilitation

Abstract

Objective: Levels of physical exercise adherence are not predicted well by behavioral intentions. Therefore, action planning and recovery self-efficacy were specified as proximal predictors to bridge the gap between intentions and adherence. The prediction model was examined in 3 studies with participants who were enrolled in cardiac rehabilitation (Study 1, N = 353; Study 2, N = 114) or orthopedic rehabilitation (Study 3, N = 368).

Main outcome measure: Each study included 3 measurement points in time, covering a period between 4 and 12 months. Intentions, planning, self-efficacy, and exercise levels were assessed.

Results: Structural equation modeling revealed that 1 common model fit all 3 data sets well. Results differed in terms of variance accounted for, but the overall patterns of estimated parameters were similar.

Conclusions: Although health risk perception appeared to be a negligible factor, action planning and recovery self-efficacy were effective predictors of physical exercise adherence.