ADULT MOTIVATIONAL READINESS FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: A NATIONAL STUDY OF 2,002 AMERICAN HOUSEHOLDS

Abstract

1694 Physical inactivity has been related to increased morbidity and mortality in adults. Thus, implementations of programs that encourage individuals to initiate and continue physically active lifestyles can have a significant effect on individual and national health care costs. However, generalized traditional exercise programs may not be appropriate for all people. Prevalence rates of those engaging in traditional structured exercise has not increased, and public health approaches that consider individual goals, behavioral skills, and stage of motivational readiness (SMR) have been found to effectively increase adoption and maintenance of physical activity (PA). PA surveys indicate 60% of the population are inadequately active; however, no survey has been conducted to determine SMR in order to appropriately target interventions. The research purpose was to conduct a national telephone survey consisting of random sampling of 2,002 households to determine SMR for change in adult PA behaviors. Results indicated variation in SMR: precontemplation(5%); contemplation (7%); preparation (19%); subaction (37%); action for moderate PA (10%); maintenance for moderate PA (11%); action for vigorous exercise (3%); and maintenance for vigorous exercise (9%). These estimates indicate nearly 7 million American adults are at great risk due to total lack of consideration of PA (precontemplation) and over 30 million adults are thinking about starting or are trying to exercise (contemplation and preparation). Another 50 million adults could benefit from additional PA. Results indicate that although the majority is at risk due to sedentary lifestyles, millions are thinking about the need to be active and thus are candidates for interventions that would help them adopt and maintain a program of regular PA.