Initial Changes in Self-regulation and Self-efficacy for Physical Activity among Midlife Adults Enrolled in a Physical Activity Intervention

Engaging in regular physical activity is critical for physical, emotional, and cognitive health, yet only 49.6% of adults meet the minimum weekly guideline of 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity. Therefore, it is important to understand key components of behavioral change to increase physical activity. The purpose of this thesis was to examine baseline to 1-month changes in self-regulation and self-efficacy among insufficiently active midlife adults enrolled in 6-month physical activity intervention. Self-regulation and self-efficacy were selected based on previous literature establishing their significant roles in behavior changes related to physical activity. Six variables were self-reported monthly throughout the 6-month study including general self-regulation, physical activity self-regulation, strategies for physical activity, general self-efficacy, walking self-efficacy, and exercise confidence. Paired samples t tests to evaluate the changes in variables of interest from Baseline to Month 1 participation in the parent study. The findings indicated that enrollment in a study focused on increasing physical activity through goal setting, including virtual coaching and self-monitoring, led to greater self-reported levels of self-regulation, and walking specific self-efficacy within one month. We consider the implications of these findings for future research and endeavors to best increase long term physical activity and goal setting adherence.