Examining implementation intentions in an exercise intervention: The effects on adherence and self-efficacy in a naturalistic setting

Terra C. Murray, Wendy M. Rodgers, Shawn N. Fraser

    Research output: Contribution to journalJournal Articlepeer-review

    20 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Some studies have found positive associations between implementation intentions and exercise, independent of motivational factors. However, most research has not been conducted in actual exercise contexts. In a naturalistic setting, implementation intentions may be associated with self-efficacy (SE) beliefs. This study examined the effect of implementation intentions on adherence and SE over an 11-week exercise program. Women (N = 72) were randomly assigned to an experimental (i.e., implementation intention) or a control group, with 52 participants completing the study. Results showed that while adherence decreased over time in both groups, the experimental group had better adherence than did the control group. Scheduling SE was also higher in the experimental group. Implementation intentions may help to maintain adherence and scheduling SE.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)2303-2320
    Number of pages18
    JournalJournal of Applied Social Psychology
    Volume39
    Issue number10
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Oct. 2009

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