Extrinsic Motivations: Relevance and Significance for Exercise Adherence

Abstract

Self-determination theory has demonstrated the importance of intrinsic motivation for exercise adherence, however, extrinsic motivations have received less research attention, and research has demonstrated that many people are extrinsically motivated for exercise. With a focus on extrinsic motivations, this study compared participant ratings of a series of common psychological, physical, health and social exercise motivations and examined how the motivations (including extrinsic and intrinsic) were associated with exercise adherence. Participants (812 college students) completed an online survey detailing their exercise patterns and motivations. Total exercise scores were calculated by assigning MET values to exercise bouts using the Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire and the Borg measure. The Exercise Motivations Inventory-2 dimensions were used to measure exercise motivations. The top rated motivations were strength and endurance, positive health, appearance, and weight management. Linear regression analysis revealed weight management, stress management, enjoyment, and competition as predictors of exercise for the sample group. With the exception of weight management, the motivations that predicted exercise adherence were not within the most important motivations for the participant sample. Enjoyment, which by definition is an intrinsic motivation, was predictive of exercise adherence, but rated lower than other health, psychological and physical motivations. Appearance was identified as a highly rated, yet negative predictor of exercise for female participants. Participants demonstrated strong extrinsic motivations for exercise. Further research is needed to determine how those prominent extrinsic motivations can be developed into more self-determined reasons for exercise.