Examining the Association of Transtheoretical Model Constructs on Physical Activity: Considerations of Anxiety Symptomology as a Potential Moderator

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the potential moderating effects of anxiety symptomology on the association between constructs from the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) and physical activity. Methods: Data were collected from 200 University students from October 2015 through June 2016. In order to assess TTM constructs, a validated TTM survey was utilized. Physical activity was assessed via the validated International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Anxiety was assessed utilizing the 5-item OASIS questionnaire. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between TTM constructs and physical activity. Interaction analyses were computed to see if there was an interaction effect of TTM constructs and anxiety on physical activity. Results: The only TTM construct associated with meeting moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) guidelines was behavioral processes of change (OR= 1.14, 95% CI= 1.07-1.21; P0.05). Conclusion: TTM seems to have some utility of promoting MVPA among University students and does not appear to be a function of anxiety levels. In individuals with high anxiety, the TTM may still serve as a useful framework to promote physical activity.