Regulation In Exercise Questionnaire Research Articles

EXPLORING PSYCHOLOGICAL NEED SATISFACTION AND MOTIVATION TO EXERCISE AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN AN ARAB CONTEXT

INTRODUCTION & AIMS Promoting physical activity (PA) requires an understanding of PA behavior, its correlates, and its determinants. This study aimed to assess self-reported PA behavior of adults in Qatar and understand the associations between self-determination theory (SDT) based motivational processes and PA behavior. METHODS This cross-sectional study used an anonymous online questionnaire within Qatar comprising demographic questions, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF), the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-3), and the Psychological Need Satisfaction in Exercise (PNSE) scale. RESULTS Respondents (N = 347; nfemales=246, nmales=101) were 21.6% non-Arab expats, 63.7% Arab expats, and 14.7% Qatari nationals. The prevalence of sufficient PA (minimum of 600 MET·min per week according to the IPAQ-SF criteria) was 66%, while 34% of participants were insufficiently active. Males (x¯ = 1808.16±2517.47 MET·min·wk-1) were significantly more active than females (x¯ = 1049.40±1717.31 MET·min·wk-1; P=0.001), and reported more autonomous forms of regulation (x¯ identified=2.86, x¯ integrated=2.33, x¯ intrinsic=2.64) than females (x¯ identified=2.58, x¯ integrated=2.01, x¯ intrinsic=2.36; P<0.05), as well as higher perceived competence satisfaction (x¯ =3.89) than females (x¯ = 3.49; P=0.025). A bivariate correlation showed that total PA and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) were positively and significantly (P<0.01) associated with autonomous forms of regulation, namely, identified (rtotal_PA=0.16, rMVPA=0.15) integrated (rtotal_PA=0.26, rMVPA=0.25), and intrinsic (rtotal_PA=0.20, rMVPA=0.18) regulation, as well as perceived competence in exercise (rtotal_PA=0.21, rMVPA=0.18; P<0.01). CONCLUSION The bivariate correlation results were consistent with the theoretical tenets of SDT, supporting the application of SDT to advance the understanding of psychological associations of PA in predominantly Arab populations. The observed gender gap in physical activity levels is consistent with previous research in Arab populations. Future research could target SDT constructs to promote PA behavior in Arab women through culturally sensitive interventions.

The Development and Validation of the Food Insecurity Physical Activity Concerns Scale

Food insecurity – defined as having limited access to nutritious foods – is linked with obesity. Previous research has also shown that food insecurity is associated with lower levels of leisure-time physical activity (physical activity performed outside of essential activities). This association may occur in part due to concerns about preserving levels of energy during times of food shortage. Currently, no scale exists which measures this construct. Therefore, we aimed to develop and validate such a scale – the food insecurity physical activity concerns scale (FIPACS). Participants (N = 603, individuals with food insecurity = 108) completed an online survey, consisting of the FIPACS, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire short-form (IPAQ), the restraint subscale of the Dutch Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (DEBQ), the amotivation subscale of the Behaviour Regulation In Exercise Questionnaire-2 (BREQ-2), and the Behavioural Inhibition System/Behavioural Approach System Reactivity scale (BIS/BAS) to assess convergent and divergent validity. An exploratory factor analysis revealed a four-factor model of the FIPACS - namely ‘Concerns relating to hunger’, ‘Concerns of replenishment and calories’, ‘Concerns of physiological effects of exercise’ and ‘Compensatory behaviours’ which was verified through a confirmatory factor analysis. To assess test-retest reliability, 100 participants completed the FIPACS again two weeks later. The FIPACS had good internal, test-retest reliability and divergent validity. However, there was limited evidence of convergent validity. Future studies could incorporate this scale when investigating the association between food insecurity and physical activity.

Reliability and Validity of the Turkish Version of the State Mindfulness Scale for Physical Activity in Young Adult Athletes

ABSTRACT Mindfulness is growing in popularity with the potential to improve many favorable health outcomes. Physical activity (PA) is crucial for improving health, however, there is no Turkish scale to measure mindfulness during PA. The purpose of this study was to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Turkish version of The State Mindfulness Scale for Physical Activity (SMS-PA-T). One hundred thirty-seven young adult athletes were included. The validity was determined using the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-2 (BREQ-2) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. The SMS-PA-T had a high-level internal consistency (α = 0.80) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.61 to 0.72 for subscales). The SMS-PA-T subscales were correlated with the BREQ-2 (r = 0.65 to 0.77, p < .005) indicating a good concurrent validity. The results show that the SMS-PA-T proved to be a valid and reliable scale for young adult athletes. The SMS-PA-T provides an easy-to-administer and useful tool to assess.

What Motivates Secondary School Teachers to Continue to Use Classroom-Based Physical Activity? A Self-Determination Theory Approach

ABSTRACT Purpose This study aimed to examine the motivational regulations of secondary school teachers to use classroom-based physical activity (CBPA). Methods A total of 148 secondary school teachers (response rate, 34%) completed a survey including the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (α = 0.79–0.92), the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory perceived competence (α = 0.85) and perceived autonomy (α = 0.86) subscales, and the perceived relatedness with students scale (α = 0.93). Results English, Norwegian, and mathematics CBPA were used by 13%, 26%, and 22% of respondents, respectively. Thirty-seven percent of the teachers reported using in-class physically active breaks one to four times a week or daily. There was a positive correlation between teachers’ perception of autonomy, competence, relatedness with students, and self-determined regulations for applying CBPA. A stepwise regression analysis showed that identified regulation for CBPA and perceived competence explained 31% of the likelihood of using CBPA in future teaching. Conclusion To improve rates of teachers using CBPA on a regular basis in secondary school, implementers need to focus on strengthening teachers’ personal held values about and perceived competence for using CBPA.

Validity, reliability, and invariance across sex of a German version of the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire.

Since there is no scientifically validated German version of the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-3), the aim of this study was to assess its psychometric parameters and invariance across sex in a sample of German-speaking young adults. The BREQ-3 is an instrument measuring the social and internal influences of motivation toward exercising. This tool is widespread within the scientific community and has been validated in several languages. A total of 271 participants (45% women; mean age = 20.67 ± 2.17 years; effect size ≥ 0.5) filled in the BREQ-3 at one time point, with a small sub-sample (n = 37) responding it a second time after 15 days. Confirmatory Factorial Analysis, Structural Modeling, and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient were used to examine the German version of the questionnaire. Results highlighted a good fit of the six-dimensional model after the removal of two items (CFI = 0.912; SRMR = 0.0594; RMSEA = 0.064), as well as full invariance across sex (pχ2 = 0.218; ΔCFI < 0.01). Internal consistency and reliability were moderate to good. The 22-item German BREQ-3 is a scientifically valid instrument that can be used in cross-national studies dealing with social aspects of exercise behaviors.

The Effect of Wearable-Based Real-Time Feedback on Running Injuries and Running Performance: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Running technique and running speed are considered important risk factors for running injuries. Real-time feedback on running technique and running speed by wearables may help reduce injury risk. Purpose: To investigate whether real-time feedback on spatiotemporal metrics and relative speed by commercially available pressure-sensitive insoles would reduce running injuries and improve running performance compared with no real-time feedback. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: A total of 220 recreational runners were randomly assigned into the intervention and control groups. Both groups received pressure-sensitive insoles, but only the intervention group received real-time feedback on spatiotemporal metrics and relative speed. The feedback aimed to reduce loading on the joint/segment estimated to exhibit the highest load. Injury rates were compared between the groups using Cox regressions. Secondary outcomes compared included injury severity, the proportion of runners with multiple injuries, changes in self-reported personal best times and motivation (Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire–2), and interest in continuing wearable use after study completion. Results: A total of 160 participants (73%) were included in analyses of the primary outcome. Intention-to-treat analysis showed no significant difference in injury rate between the groups (Hazard ratio [HR], 1.11; P = .70). This was expected, as 53 of 160 (33%) participants ended up in the unassigned group because they used incorrect wearable settings, nullifying any interventional effects. As-treated analysis showed a significantly lower injury rate among participants receiving real-time feedback (HR, 0.53; P = .03). Similarly, the first-time injury severity was significantly lower (–0.43; P = .042). Per-protocol analysis showed no significant differences in injury rates, but the direction favored the intervention group (HR, 0.67; P = .30). There were no significant differences in the proportion of patients with multiple injuries (HR, 0.82; P = .40) or changes in running performance (3.07%; P = .26) and motivation. Also, ~60% of the participants who completed the study showed interest in continuing wearable use. Conclusion: Real-time feedback on spatiotemporal metrics and relative speed provided by commercially available instrumented insoles may reduce the rate and severity of injuries in recreational runners. Feedback did not influence running performance and exercise motivation. Registration: NL8472 (Dutch Trial Register).

Self-determined motivation and physical activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a cross-sectional study

Objective To identify factors associated with two self-reported measures of physical activity (PA) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Method Hospital outpatients with RA from central Norway filled in questionnaires about symptoms, psychological factors, and PA. Outcomes were two alternative self-reported measures of PA: (i) fulfilling the aerobic PA recommendations of ≥ 150 min/week at moderate intensity or ≥ 75 min/week at vigorous intensity; or (ii) being in the PA maintenance stage of the Stages of Exercise Behaviour Change framework. Logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with PA. Step 1 included the independent variables sex, age, and smoking habits. Step 2a added self-reported function, joint pain during the past 6 months, and fatigue to Step 1. Step 2b added Exercise Self-Efficacy and the Relative Autonomy Index (RAI), calculated from the Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-2, to Step 1. Step 3 included all the mentioned independent variables. Steps 1–3 were analysed for each PA measure. Results In total, 227 patients participated. The RAI had a statistically significant positive association with being physically active according to both PA definitions. Joint pain had a significant negative association with meeting the aerobic PA recommendations but was not associated with being in the PA maintenance stage. Conclusion The degree of self-determined motivation was the most consistent variable associated with self-reported PA behaviour. Joint pain was associated with one of the two PA measures. Motivation and joint pain may be useful targets for intervention in clinical practice to improve PA engagement among patients with RA.

The effect of exercise training and motivational counselling on physical activity behaviour and psychosocial factors in pregnant women: secondary analyses of the FitMum randomised controlled trial investigating prenatal physical activity

BackgroundA physically active lifestyle is beneficial during pregnancy. However, little is known about physical activity (PA) behaviour and psychosocial factors in women during and after pregnancy. This study examined exercise behavioural regulation, exercise self-efficacy, health-related quality of life, sickness absence and musculoskeletal pain in pregnant women offered either structured supervised exercise training, motivational counselling on PA, or standard prenatal care in the FitMum randomised controlled trial.MethodsTwo hundred and eighteen healthy inactive pregnant women were randomised to structured supervised exercise training (n = 87), motivational counselling on PA (n = 86) or standard prenatal care (n = 45). The women answered the Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-2 (BREQ-2), the Pregnancy Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale (P-ESES-DK) and the Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36) at baseline (gestational age (GA) of max 15 weeks), GA 28 and 34 weeks, and one year after delivery. Sickness absence and low back and/or pelvic girdle pain were likewise reported in questionnaires at baseline and GA 28 weeks.ResultsParticipants offered structured supervised exercise training or motivational counselling on PA had higher autonomous motivation for exercise during pregnancy compared with participants receiving standard prenatal care (e.g., difference in intrinsic regulation at GA 28 weeks, structured supervised exercise training vs. standard prenatal care: mean difference in score 0.39 [0.16; 0.64], p < 0.001). Participants offered structured supervised exercise training also had higher exercise self-efficacy during pregnancy (e.g., GA 28 weeks, structured supervised exercise training vs. standard prenatal care: mean difference in score 6.97 [2.05; 12.02], p = 0.005). All participants reported high exercise self-efficacy at baseline and medium exercise self-efficacy during pregnancy and one year after delivery. No differences were found between groups in health-related quality of life, sickness absence or low back and/or pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy. No group differences were found one year after delivery.ConclusionStructured supervised exercise training and motivational counselling on PA had important effects on autonomous exercise motivation during pregnancy. Exercise self-efficacy was also increased with structured supervised exercise training compared to standard prenatal care. No group differences in health-related quality of life, sickness absence, or pain were found during and after pregnancy. No effects were found one year post-delivery after intervention cessation.Trial registrationThe study was approved by the Danish National Committee on Health Research Ethics (#H-18011067) and the Danish Data Protection Agency (#P-2019–512). The study adheres to the principles of the Helsinki declaration. Written informed consent was obtained at inclusion.

Wearable Activity Trackers That Motivate Women to Increase Physical Activity: Mixed Methods Study.

Physical inactivity is a significant public health concern, particularly among women in the United States. Wearable activity trackers (WATs) have been proposed as a potential solution to increase awareness of and engagement in physical activity (PA). However, to be effective, WATs must include features and designs that encourage daily use. This study aims to explore the features and designs of WATs that appeal to women and determine whether devices with these attributes are effective motivators for women to be physically active. A mixed methods study guided by the self-determination theory was conducted among 15 women. Participants trialed 3 WATs with influence in their respective accessory domains: Apple Watch for the wrist; Oura Ring for the finger; and Bellabeat Leaf Urban for multiple sites (it can be worn as a bracelet, necklace, or clip). Participants documented their daily PA levels and rated their satisfaction with each device's comfort, features, and motivational effect. Focus groups were also conducted to gather additional feedback and experiences within the a priori areas of comfort, features, and motivation. Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-2 scores indicated that most participants (14/15, 93%) were motivated at baseline (amotivation score: mean 0.13, SD 0.45), but on average, participants did not meet the national minimum PA guidelines according to the self-reported Physical Activity Vital Sign questionnaire (moderate to vigorous PA score: mean 144, SD 97.5 min/wk). Mean WAT wear time was 16.9 (SD 4.4) hours, 19.4 (SD 5.3) hours, and 20.4 (SD 4.7) hours for Apple Watch, Bellabeat Leaf Urban, and Oura Ring, respectively. During focus groups, participants reinforced their quantitative ratings and rankings of the WATs based on personal experiences. Participants shared a variety of both activity-related and non-activity-related features that they look for in a motivating device. When considering what the ideal WAT would be for a woman, participants suggested features of (1) comfort, (2) extended battery life, (3) durability, (4) immediate PA feedback, (5) intuitive PA sensing, and (6) programmability. This study is the first to specifically address women's experiences with and preferences for different types of WATs. Those who work with women should realize how they view WATs and the role they play in motivation to be active.

Motivational regulations of users in unisex fitness centres

ABSTRACT Motivational regulation is a determining factor for adherence to physical activity. Therefore, this study investigated the influence of sociodemographic variables, such as sex, age and educational level, as well as the duration and frequency of weekly physical activity, on the motivational regulations of fitness centre users. A total of 500 users (58.70% women and 41.30% men) from public and private fitness centres participated in the study. Motivational regulations were measured using the Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire. This instrument obtained an adequate model fit and reliability after the calculation of the Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient, respectively. The Kruskal–Wallis H test was calculated to determinate the differences between groups, using the Bonferroni correction. The highest scores were recorded for identified (M = 3.50; SD = 0.64), intrinsic (M = 3.33; SD = 0.83) and integrated (M = 2.95; SD = 1.06) regulations. There were no significant differences in motivational regulations according to sex. However, there were significant differences according to age, educational level, seniority in physical activity practice and weekly practice time. Therefore, users who had been in the fitness centres longer scored higher in intrinsic, integrated and identified regulations. Moreover, integrated and identified regulations were greater when the frequency of weekly fitness increased. Fitness centres and trainers should be aware of users’ physical activity motives and guide them toward more self-determined regulation that promotes sport adherence and health, especially for newer users.

Effect of rehabilitation motivation on improving activities of daily living in subacute stroke patients

ObjectivesTo determine the effect of rehabilitation motivation on activities of daily living improvement in subacute stroke patients starting intensive rehabilitation. Materials and methodsThis was a single-center cohort study involving patients with a subacute stroke who were admitted to or discharged from a Recovery Rehabilitation Unit between February 2021 and August 2022. Improvement in Activity of Daily Living was evaluated using the Functional Independence Measure. We calculated the corrected motor Functional Independence Measure effectiveness using its motor-related items at admission and discharge. The Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire 2 was used to evaluate admission rehabilitation motivation, and the Relative Autonomy index was calculated. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between the corrected motor Functional Independence Measure effectiveness and the Relative Autonomy Index. ResultsEighty-six of the 231 patients (37.2 %) were included in the analysis. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis adjusted for demographic and clinical variables demonstrated that age, comorbidities, and Relative Autonomy Index were significantly associated with corrected motor Functional Independence Measure effectiveness (R2 = 0.423, p ≺ .001). ConclusionMotivation at intensive rehabilitation initiation in patients with a subacute stroke influences Activities of Daily Living improvement. These results may help develop rehabilitation programs aimed at improving Activities of Daily Living in patients with subacute strokes.

Is the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire a Valid Measure in Older People?

Despite the widely recognized benefits of physical activity for preventing physical and cognitive decline during aging, global estimates indicate that most older adults do not achieve the recommended amount of physical activity due to a lack of motivation. The current research examined the validity and psychometric properties of the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-3) among older adults. Based on Self-Determination Theory (SDT), the BREQ-3 stands out as one of the most extensively utilized tools among exercise motivation studies. A sample of older adults (N = 383; M age = 73.2 years, SD age = 7.2) completed the BREQ-3 and the Godin-Shepard Leisure-Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (GSLTPAQ). Confirmatory factor analyses confirmed the six-factor structure postulated by SDT, showing good fit indices (CFI= 0.95; RMSEA = 0.05; SRMR = 0.04) and supporting the full measurement invariance of the scale across sex and age groups (65 to 74 years; over 75 years). The construct and criterion validity of the BREQ-3 was upheld through the latent correlations between its subscales and their correlations with the GSLTPAQ. We demonstrated for the first time the effectiveness of the BREQ-3 in assessing all forms of behavioral regulation proposed by SDT in older adults, suggesting that older adults similarly interpreted the items across sex and age groups.

Motivational Profile as a Predictor of Physical Activity Among US Adults During the Early Months of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Daily Diary Study.

This study used a daily diary approach to examine associations between day-level physical activity (PA) behavior, PA-specific motivational profile, and days since the COVID-19 national emergency declaration during the early months (April-June 2020) of the pandemic. A total of 468 US adults (Mage = 34.8y, 79% female) participated in a 28-day smartphone-based daily diary study assessing PA. A baseline survey assessed PA and motivation for PA using the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire. Multilevel linear regression models examined the main effects and interactions of motivational profile and time (days since the US March 13, 2020, COVID-19 national emergency declaration) on daily PA minutes. Latent profile analysis identified 4 distinct motivational profiles for PA among this sample: profile 1: high amotivation (n = 100, 21%); profile 2: low controlled motivation (n = 55, 12%); profile 3: high external regulation (n = 47, 10%); and profile 4: moderate autonomous motivation (n = 266, 57%). After controlling for baseline PA, there were significant interactions between profile and time on daily PA (-0.21, P < .01). Profile 2 showed greater decreases in daily PA minutes over time than profile 1 (b = -0.29, P < .01). Profiles 3 and 4 did not indicate significant decreases in PA compared with profile 1 (b = 0.14, P = .31 and b = -0.16, P = .05, respectively). Contrary to previous research, individuals with lower controlled or moderate autonomous motivation demonstrated the largest decreases in PA over time, whereas individuals with higher amotivation or external regulation demonstrated smaller decreases over time. These findings suggest that external motivation may have provided short-term protection against declines in PA observed during early months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The behavioural regulation in exercise questionnaire (BREQ): psychometric properties and associations with physical activity outcomes in a Norwegian sample of physically active adults

ABSTRACT We investigate the factor structure and psychometric properties of different versions of the Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ), which measures exercise motivation, and explore the association with physical activity (PA) outcomes, in a Norwegian sample of physically active adults. The sample consisted of N = 1198, 68.9% men, mean age 49.1 (SD = 11.4) using a cross-sectional design. We analysed several BREQ versions with confirmatory factor analysis to retain the one with the best model fit: The 15-item BREQ, 19-item BREQ-2, 19-item BREQ with integrated regulation, 18-item BREQ-3, and 24-item BREQ-3. An 18-item BREQ-2 with five factors (external, introjected, identified, and intrinsic regulation, and amotivation) showed excellent model fit (χ 2 = 493.848; df = 125; RMSEA = .050; 90% CI [0.045-0.054]; CFI = .975; TLI = .969; SRMR = .041), with the item “I get restless if I don’t exercise regularly” removed. Configural, metric, scalar, and strict measurement invariance was supported. Intrinsic motivation was associated with the PA index (PA-I), PA frequency, duration, and intensity, and estimated cardiorespiratory fitness (eCRF). Identified regulation was associated with PA-I, PA frequency and eCRF, and introjected regulation with PA-I and intensity. External regulation was negatively related to PA frequency and eCRF, while amotivation was unrelated to all outcomes. The results support the factorial validity of the 18-item BREQ-2. The poor model fit found for other BREQ versions warrants additional studies to investigate the psychometric properties in physically active adult samples. Autonomous motivation factors were most important for PA outcomes.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF MOTIVATION IN THE FIELD OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORTS

Introduction: Learning the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of motivation provides important information for understanding the behavior in physical education and sports in young people. Sage (1977) describes motivation as one's effort towards certain activities and its intensity. Motivation is deeply rooted in the individual based on Vallerand's (1987) hierarchical model, and its type (intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation) can change during the activity, as well as sometimes remains hidden. Method: Four hundred and nine students took part in our research, whose average age was 15.0 years. In addition to the questionnaire based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), research participants filled out the Behavior Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-2) regarding to the Self-Determination Theory (SDT). Respondents also reported the support they received from their social environment for physical activity, as well as what their future intentions were and how their past behavior and current behavior have developed. Data analysis was performed by employing IBM SPSS v. 25 and AMOS v. 24 software packages. Results and conclusions: In our study social support influenced young people’s intention to perform physical activity as a current behavior. According to the Trans-Contextual Model (TCM) results revealed how autonomous motivation transfers across contexts (e.g., from school/education to free living) and therefore explained how leisure time behavior is reinforced. Our data confirmed the strongest positive relationship between students’ past behavior and current behavior followed by a moderate relationship in students’ past behavior and intention. Thus, the relationship between past behavior and current behavior was also moderate. Results have implications beyond physical activity, and can help understanding of why young people make a range of choices related to health. Results can also aid the development of educational materials and practical methods to motivate young people to choose a healthy, physically active lifestyle. In conclusion, from a school context to leisure time can help educational and health practitioners to understand what influences health-related physical activity behaviors in young people. Physical education classes are supposed to instil behaviors and attitudes that promote physical activity in free-time and promote healthy lifestyle. Nevertheless, according to our findings, the expected function of physical education in schools fails to meet the criteria that lead to developing self-determined or autonomous motivation to young students’ leisure time intention, and especially physical activity.

Attendance analysis in a phase 3 cardiovascular rehabilitation program: can behaviour regulation in exercise predict long-term attendance?

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background After a phase II cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) program, cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients ideally continue to a phase III long-term CR program. Enrolment, attendance rates and barriers are well established for phase II or short-term CR programs (≤ 12 weeks). However, keeping CVD patients motivated and with high attendance rates (≥ 80%) in a long-term CR program (over 6 months) is more challenging. Self-Determination Theory states that more internalized types of behaviour regulation lead to feelings of self-determination and a higher behavioural adherence. Therefore, more studies analysing attendance rates and behaviour regulation of CVD patients in long-term CR programs are needed. Purpose To compare the attendance of CVD patients enrolled in a long-term CR community-based program between 3, 6 and 12 months and to assess if behavioural regulation in exercise questionnaire (BREQ-2) can predict long term attendance. Methods Patients with CVD attending for, at least, 6 months a phase III community-based CR program were selected. Enrolled patients chose to attend 60 minutes exercise CR sessions either 3 or 2 times/week. Attendance rates were calculated at 3 months, 6 months and 12 months of program completion dividing the number of sessions attended by the number of sessions planned. When admitted to the program, each patient was asked to answer BREQ-2 (19 items, 5-point lickert-type scale, 5 groups: amotivated, external, introjected, identified and intrinsic). One way ANOVA for repeated measures, paired sample t test and pearson correlations were used. Results One hundred and eighteen CVD patients (61 ± 9 years; 78.8% male; 85% with coronary artery disease) completed at least 6 months of CR exercise sessions. Attendance rates decreased significantly from 3 months to 6 months (73.38 ± 18.09% vs 68.14 ± 17.15%, p-value&amp;lt;0.001) with higher scores in intrinsic motivation being correlated with higher rates of attendance (r= 0.330; p&amp;lt;0.001) and higher scores in external motivation being correlated with lower rates of attendance (r= -0.182; p=0.048) at 6 months. Amotivated, introjected and identified motivation showed no significant correlation. A sub analysis with 92 CVD patients (62 ± 9 years, 78.3% male, 87% with coronary artery disease) that completed 12 months of CR exercise sessions was made and a significant decrease in attendance was found between 3, 6 and 12 months (75.5 ± 17.05%, 70.7 ± 15.93% and 66.8 ± 18.34%; p-value&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusion Our results show that attendance rates to exercise CR sessions tend to decrease over the first year of the CR program and that external motivation at baseline is correlated with lower rates of attendance contrary to intrinsic motivation. These findings suggest that BREQ-2 questionnaire might be a good predictor of long-term attendance and help identify CVD patients that could benefit from additional motivational strategies to keep higher attendance rates.

Gender Differences in University Students’ Levels of Physical Activity and Motivations to Engage in Physical Activity

The transition of students to the university stage is a critical period in which there are numerous changes that could influence their lifestyles. The aim of this research was to analyse the levels of physical activity and the types of motivation for physical activity among university students according to gender. A quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional survey methodology was used. A total sample of 3060 university students, 47.8% women and 52.2% men, with a mean age of 20.88 ± 2.01 years was recruited. The sampling margin of error was ±1.85%. The short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the third version of the Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire were used to evaluate MVPA and motivations to exercise, respectively. Two-way ANCOVA and a mediation analysis were performed. The most relevant results show that less than half of the university men and women are considered physically active. Furthermore, when analysing the interaction between motivation and gender, a large effect in identified motivation (F = 65.03; p≤ 0.001) and integrated motivation (F = 324.58; p ≤.0.001) and a medium one intrinsic motivation (F = 169.39; p ≤ 0.001) was found. Therefore, women university students have lower levels of physical activity practice than men students and show higher external motivation and demotivation.

Abstract MP72: Intrinsic Motivation is Associated With Greater Physical Activity and Less Sedentary Behavior During Early Pregnancy

Background: National guidelines recommend physical activity (PA) during pregnancy for optimal cardiovascular and overall health. Yet most individuals do not engage in sufficient PA and motivation for PA during pregnancy is poorly understood. Methods: We examined intrinsic motivation for PA (i.e., engaging in activity for enjoyment or satisfaction) and its cross-sectional associations with PA, by intensity level, in the first trimester of pregnancy. Data come from the Pregnancy, Lifestyle and Environment Study (PETALS), a population-based cohort study set in an integrated health system. Following recruitment at 10-13 weeks’ gestation, participants ( N =472; 71% from racial/ethnic groups other than White) completed the validated Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-2 (BREQ-2, intrinsic subscale); and Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ) to estimate typical PA in the prior 2 months, as expressed in MET [metabolic equivalent] hours/week (by intensity and, for MVPA, by domain—i.e., limited to intentional activity such as sports, walking, aerobic exercise, etc.). Data were collected in 2017-18. Results: As hypothesized, intrinsic motivation was higher among those who met ( n =192, 40.7%) vs. did not meet national guidelines for 150 minutes/week of moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA (MVPA; mean BREQ-2 scores [SD]: 2.84 [0.89] vs. 1.94 [1.02], p &lt;0.0001). Likewise, intrinsic motivation was higher among those who scored at or above ( n =131, 27.8%) vs. below the sample-specific 75 th percentile for vigorous PA (2.86 [0.93] vs. 2.09 [1.03], p &lt;0.0001); and lower among those who scored at or above ( n =119, 25.2%) vs. below the 75 th percentile for sedentary behavior (1.99 [1.14] vs. 2.41 [1.01], p =0.0005). Intrinsic motivation was not associated with reaching the 75 th percentiles for total, light, or moderate PA. In modified Poisson regression models adjusted for age, pre-pregnancy body mass index, race/ethnicity, education, and parity, a 1-unit increase in BREQ-2 score was associated with an increased probability of meeting or exceeding MVPA guidelines (rate ratio [95% CI]: 1.66 [1.48, 1.86]) and scoring at or above the 75 th percentile for vigorous PA (1.70 [1.44, 1.99]). A 1-unit increase in BREQ-2 score decreased the probability of scoring at or above the 75 th percentile for sedentary behavior (0.79 [0.67, 0.92]). Conclusions: Only 4 in 10 participants met national guidelines for MVPA in the first trimester of pregnancy. Intrinsic motivation was associated with greater MVPA and vigorous PA, and less sedentary behavior, in this diverse sample. Intrinsic motivation is potentially modifiable and thus a promising target for new behavioral interventions to improve maternal cardiovascular health.

Autonomous Motivation for Exercise Is Key to an Active Lifestyle in Firefighters.

Physical inactivity is an important risk factor for chronic mental and physical health conditions in firefighters. It remains unclear why a substantial portion of firefighters do not meet the World Health Organization's physical activity (PA) recommendations. In this cross-sectional study, we explored associations between motivational reasons for being physically active and time spent exercising, walking, and in incidental PA in firefighters. A secondary aim was to investigate differences in motivational reasons between physically active versus physically inactive firefighters. Eighty-seven participants (43.1 ± 10.3 years; 87.6% male) who were recruited via a nonprofit peer support network of fire rescue personnel in Flanders, Belgium, completed the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire 2 (BREQ-2), Simple Physical Activity Questionnaire (SIMPAQ), and the Physical Activity Vital Sign (PAVS) via an online survey. Firefighters who identified the benefits of exercising and/or those who found pleasure or a personal challenge in it exercised more. Those who did not meet the guideline of 150 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per week had much less intrinsic motivation. This study demonstrates that autonomous motives for PA (i.e., because it is perceived to be consistent with intrinsic goals or outcomes and emanates from the self) are important for an active lifestyle in firefighters. Occupational health professionals can foster autonomous motivation in firefighters by focusing on the benefits of exercise, making sure there are a wide range of exercise options available, and supporting initiatives of firefighters within the fire station.

Moving well-being well: Using machine learning to explore the relationship between physical literacy and well-being in children.

Physical literacy provides a foundation for lifelong engagement in physical activity, resulting in positive health outcomes. Direct pathways between physical literacy and health have not yet been investigated thoroughly. Associations between physical literacy and well-being in children (n= 1073, mean age 10.86 ± 1.20 years) were analysed using machine learning. Motor competence (TGMD-3 and BOT-2) and health-related fitness (PACER and plank) were assessed in the physical competence domain. Motivation (adapted-Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire) and confidence (modified-Physical Activity Self-Efficacy Scale) were assessed in the affective domain. Well-being was measured using the KIDSCREEN-27. Accuracy of predicting well-being from physical literacy was investigated using five machine learning classifiers (decision tree, random forest, XGBoost, AdaBoost, k-nearest neighbour) in the full sample and across subgroups (sex, socioeconomic status [SES], age). XGBoost predicted well-being from physical literacy with an accuracy of 87% in the full sample. Predictive accuracy was lowest in low SES participants. Contribution of physical literacy features differed substantially across subgroups. Physical literacy predicts well-being in children but the relative contribution of physical literacy features to well-being differs substantially between subgroups.