Social Support For Exercise Research Articles

Physical Activity Preferences and Perceived Barriers to Activity Among Persons With Severe Mental Illness in the United Kingdom

This study assessed physical activity interests among psychiatric patients. A cross-sectional survey of 120 psychiatric patients in the United Kingdom assessed preferences for physical activity, perceived barriers to activity, and other psychosocial factors related to exercise levels. Compared with the general population, respondents were less active. Respondents reported very little confidence in their ability to exercise when feeling sad or stressed, and they reported low levels of social support toward exercising. Approximately half the respondents or more expressed a belief in the health benefits of exercise, enjoyment of exercise, and a desire to be more active. Walking was the most popular activity, and fatigue and illness were the most common barriers to activity. Equal numbers preferred individual and group activities. A majority agreed that they would exercise more if they talked with an exercise instructor or were advised by their doctor. Physical activity interventions for the psychiatric population need to bridge the gap between high interest and low uptake through, for example, professional support and enhancing self-efficacy by combating barriers and tailoring to preferences.

Social Cognitive Correlates of Leisure Time Physical Activity Among Latinos

Despite the well-documented benefits of leisure time physical activity, Latinos are reported to be highest among all ethnic groups in leisure time inactivity. The present study examined the relationship between leisure time physical activity and exercise self-efficacy, exercise barriers self-efficacy, exercise social support, and perceived importance of physical activity. Data were obtained from 153 Latinos (n = 86 female, n = 67 male). Comparisons were made between Latinos with high and low levels of leisure time physical activity and between men and women. Results revealed that Latinos high in leisure time physical activity had significantly greater exercise and barriers self-efficacy, received more social support from friends to exercise, and placed greater importance on physical activity outcomes than did Latinos low in leisure time physical activity. No significant differences were revealed for social support from family, nor between men and women on the psychosocial variables. Physical activity interventions targeting sources of self-efficacy, increasing social support, and emphasizing the importance of regular physical activity should be helpful in increasing leisure time physical activity of Latinos. Future research should examine the influence of environmental and cultural variables on the leisure time physical activity of Latinos and how they interact with psychosocial factors.

Stages of Change, Processes of Change, and Social Support for Exercise and Weight Gain in Postpartum Women

To test the extent to which social support and variables included in the Transtheoretical Model were explanatory for exercise initiation and weight maintenance in postpartum women. A cross-sectional descriptive design. Data were collected in the participant's homes. Postpartum women who had normal pregnancies were interviewed and measured on body fat, physical activity, and psychosocial scales. (a) Stages of exercise change measure, (b) Seven Day Recall, (c) Friend and Family Support for Exercise Scale, (d) Processes of Change Questionnaire, and (e) body fat measures including body mass index and percent body fat. Forty percent reported engaging in vigorous activity less than 1 hour daily, 55% walked less than four city blocks daily, and 52% engaged in less than 2 hours of vigorous weekend activity. Multilinear regression showed that the processes of change contributed 36% to the body mass index, and 21% of the variance in waist-thigh ratio. Of the processes of change, environmental reevaluation correlated significantly with body mass index. The impact of a woman's weight on others as well as information concerning the health effects of obesity and physical activity could enhance the initiation of exercise in the postpartum woman.

Test of the health promotion model as a causal model of commitment to a plan for exercise among Korean adults with chronic disease

The purpose of this study was to test seven constructs (prior experience of exercise, perceived health status, exercise benefits, exercise barriers, exercise self-efficacy, social support for exercise, and options for exercise) from the health promotion model (HPM) as a causal model of commitment to a plan for exercise in a sample of 400 Korean adults with chronic disease. Using structural equation modeling (SEM), we found that all fit indices indicated a good fit. The final model accounted for 54% of the variance in commitment to a plan for exercise. Prior experience with exercise and exercise benefits were the factors most highly related. Health professionals can assess prior experience and emphasize personally relevant benefits of exercise in designing intervention programs to help Korean adults with chronic disease become more physically active.

Does Social Support for Eating and Exercise Behaviors Influence Weight Loss in Overweight Adults?

0541 PURPOSE: To examine whether perceived social support from family members and friends for modifying eating and exercise behaviors is correlated with weight loss in overweight adult women. METHODS: Eighty-six overweight women (body mass index = 30.7 ± 2.5 kg/m2, age = 39.3 ± 5.4 years) participated in an 18 month behavioral weight loss program. The weight loss intervention consisted of reducing dietary intake to 1200–1500 kcal/d and reducing dietary fat to 20 to 30% of total energy intake. Exercise was prescribed for 200 min/wk at a moderate intensity. Body weight and social support were measured at 0, 6, 12, and 18 months. Social support from family and friends for both eating and exercise was assessed using the Sallis Social Support Scales. RESULTS: Social support from family and friends for eating behaviors increased at 6, 12, and 18 months (p<0.05). Social support for exercise from family increased significantly at 6, 12, and 18 months, whereas social support for exercise from friends significantly increased at 6 and 12 months (p<0.05). Data were analyzed to assess the correlation between changes in social support and changes in body weight. Social support from family for eating behaviors was significantly correlated with percent weight change at 6 (r = 0.24 p<0.05) and 18 months (r = 0.25 p<0.05), with social support from friends significantly correlated with percent weight change at 6 (r = 0.22, p<0.05), 12 (r = 0.28, p<0.05), and 18 months (r = 0.35, p<0.01). Social support from family for exercise behaviors was significantly correlated with percent weight change at 6 (r = 0.35, p<0.01) and 12 months (r = 0.28, p<0.05), with social support from friends significantly correlated with percent weight change at 6 (0.29, p<0.01) and 12 months (r = 0.25, p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Social support from friends and family for both eating and exercise behaviors increased in response to an 18 month behavioral weight loss intervention, and these improvements in social support were correlated with weight loss. Therefore, behavioral weight loss interventions should develop strategies to increase social support because of the potential of this strategy to improve weight loss outcomes. Supported by the National Institutes of Health (DK 58002)

Intervention-related cognitive versus social mediators of exercise adherence in the elderly

Context: Participation in regular physical activity is recognized as one of the most important health behaviors associated with the prevention of chronic disease and the promotion of health and well-being among the elderly. Although a number of cross-sectional studies have reported predictors of physical activity participation, few studies have assessed changes in intervention-related mediators associated with physical activity adherence in the elderly. Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the relative abilities of cognitive mediating variables (i.e., self-efficacy beliefs and outcome expectancies/realizations) versus a social mediating variable (i.e., exercise-related social support) to examine mediators of a telephone-based, exercise-counseling intervention on exercise adherence during months 7 to 12 of an exercise intervention. Method: Participants were 103 community-dwelling, healthy, sedentary, older adults (67 women and 36 men). Self-efficacy for exercise, outcome expectancies/realizations, and social support for exercise were assessed at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Participants received telephone-based exercise counseling to promote exercise adherence during the course of two 12-month exercise programs (i.e., aerobic/strength or flexibility exercises). Results: Changes in cognitive mediators (i.e., self-efficacy and fitness outcome realizations) were associated with 7- to 12-month exercise adherence while exercise-related social support was not. Conclusion: Attention should be given to increasing confidence in the elderly to overcome barriers to exercise and achieve relevant fitness outcomes in exercise programs.

Initiation and maintenance of exercise behavior in older women: predictors from the social learning model.

The purpose of the present study was to determine the extent to which modifiable social learning constructs predicted long-term adherence to an exercise program in older individuals. Participants were 189 women aged 59 to 78 years and diagnosed with low bone density. Exercise behavior was assessed at 3-month intervals. Self-efficacy, readiness for change, orientation toward exercise, social support in general, and support specifically for exercise were measured at baseline and at 12-month follow-up. Analyses indicated that initial adoption of exercise behavior was best predicted by readiness to change. Maintenance was predicted by self-efficacy for exercise, and exercise behavior at 12 months was predicted by social support for exercise. The results were seen as supportive of the stages and processes of change model of health behavior change. Implications of the findings for interventions to enhance adoption and maintenance of exercise programs by older women are discussed.

Physical activity maintenance in elders with cardiac problems

Abstract: Clinicians who work with elderly people after acute cardiac events need strategies to facilitate the continuance of physical activity learned in cardiac rehabilitation programs. This exploratory study examined three factors related to this maintenance in 31 men and women: self-efficacy, stages of change, and social support for exercise. Self-efficacy was significantly correlated to stages of change and physical activity. Clinicians can use these factors to develop strategies to enhance the maintenance of exercise in elders with cardiac problems. (Geriatr Nurs 1999;21:200-3)

Physical activity maintenance in elders with cardiac problems

Clinicians who work with elderly people after acute cardiac events need strategies to facilitate the continuance of physical activity learned in cardiac rehabilitation programs. This exploratory study examined three factors related to this maintenance in 31 men and women: self-efficacy, stages of change, and social support for exercise. Self-efficacy was significantly correlated to stages of change and physical activity. Clinicians can use these factors to develop strategies to enhance the maintenance of exercise in elders with cardiac problems.

THE RELATIONSHIP OF SELF-EFFICACY, EDUCATION, AND SOCIAL SUPPORT TO REGULARLY EXERCISING OLDER ADULTS

687 Current evidence in the exercise adherence literature suggests that both high self-efficacy and a strong perception of social support are key factors to continued physical activity. Further, research indicates that regular participation in exercise is also associated with a high level of formal education. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between these factors and regular elderly exercisers. Thirty-five free-living older adults ([horizontal bar over]x.=71 yr.) were surveyed on their stage of exercise behaviour change, exercise self-efficacy, and years of formal education using a questionnaire-based design distributed at two recreation centers. Perceived sources of social support to exercise were also investigated in the context of past and present peer and family support, as well as physician encouragement towards physical activity. All participants proved to be regular exercisers (in the maintenance stage of behaviour change) and responded with moderately high scores in self-efficacy (70%), and many years of formal education (average = university graduation). High scores were also reported in the perception of exercise social support (83%), and no significant differences were indicated among the four possible sources for support surveyed. Also, no gender differences were found among the subjects on association with all constructs. These findings are in agreement with the literature concerning the importance of self-efficacy, and social support for physical activity among older adults, and further indicate the association of education and regular exercise found in large epidemiological and cross-sectional survey studies.

CHARACTERISTICS THAT DISCRIMINATE BETWEEN REGULAR EXERCISERS, MINIMAL EXERCISERS, AND NON-EXERCISERS 803

The goal of this study was to better understand factors that discriminate between regular exercises (RE), minimal exercisers (ME), and those who at one time exercised but now do not (NE). A comprehensive and objective structured interview based on items incorporated in past research and designed to include variables previously related to exercise adherence was utilized. Specifically, social support for exercise, discomfort while exercising, distance from where exercise, cognitions while exercising, exercise self-efficacy, perception of time available for exercise, Type A behavior, and specific reasons (e.g., improved health) for exercise were assessed. Two hundred and fifty seven adults who had previously enrolled in Adult Fitness Programs at two universities were administered the structured interview. The time since their enrollment in the programs ranged from 1 to 20 years with a mean of 9.5 years. The subjects were divided into three groups (RE, ME, NE) based on their current exercise habits. The validity of these groupings was demonstrated by analysis of exercise behavior and body mass data. Discriminant analysis using exercise group as the independent variable and the interview responses as dependent variables yielded two significant functions (p<.001). The first was characterized by high levels of exercise self-efficacy and health motivation along with living close to where they exercise. RE scored highest on this function followed by ME and then NE. The second function was characterized only by health motivation. This function most described NE followed by RE and finally ME. These results demonstrate that all subjects recognized the health benefits of regular exercise, even those not currently exercising. However, the RE group distinguished itself as being characterized by high levels of exercise self-efficacy and being located within close proximity to where they exercise. This suggests that planning skills in terms of time and place of exercise along with the belief that they will exercise even when competing interests or emotions challenge their time are discriminating characteristics of RE.

Gender and developmental differences in exercise beliefs among youth and prediction of their exercise behavior.

This study examined gender and developmental differences in exercise-related beliefs and exercise behaviors of 286 racially diverse youth and explored factors predictive of exercise. Compared to males, females reported less prior and current exercise, lower self-esteem, poorer health status, and lower exercise self-schema. Adolescents, in contrast to pre-adolescents, reported less social support for exercise and fewer exercise role models. In a path model, gender, the benefits/barriers differential, and access to exercise facilities and programs directly predicted exercise. Effects of grade, perceived health status, exercise self-efficacy, social support for exercise, and social norms for exercise on exercise behavior, were mediated through the benefits/barriers differential. Effect of race on exercise was mediated by access to exercise facilities and programs. Continued exploration of gender and developmental differences in variables influencing physical activity can yield valuable information for tailoring exercise promotion interventions to the unique needs of youth.

Using Social Cognitive Theory to Predict Intentional Exercise in Post-Retirement Adults

Abstract No theory based studies have been done that explain why post-retirement adults are physically inactive. The purpose of this descriptive study was to test the ability of Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) constructs to predict intentional exercise among post-retirement adults. The sample consisted of 108 Columbus, Ohio area senior center members. Based on a six-month measure, the following model accounted for 52.3 percent of a variance in exercise: barriers to exercise, social support for exercise, exercise self-efficacy, benefits of exercise, and enjoyment of exercise. SCT was useful in predicting intentional exercise in post-retirement adults. It is suggested that exercise programs based on SCT be developed and tested on post-retirement adult populations.

Using Social Learning Theory to Assess the Exercise Related Health Education Needs of Post-Retirement Adults

The purpose of this study was to determine the exercise related health education needs of post-retirement adults. Social Learning Theory (SLT) was used as the conceptual framework. The target population for this study was post-retirement adults aged sixty years and over living in Columbus, Ohio. Results revealed a serious lack of knowledge regarding the benefits and attributes of exercise. Overall it appeared that few older adults received social support for exercise. Approximately one-half of the sample reported high levels of exercise self-efficacy. Over 50 percent of the sample reported to exercise for health-related benefits. Based on the results, specific recommendations for the promotion of exercise in post-retirement adults are offered.

Social support for exercise: Relationship to physical activity in young adults

Background. Physical inactivity is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, yet little is known concerning factors which influence participation in physical activity or exercise. Two studies assessed the relationships between self-reported physical activity and social support for exercise. Method. One study involved a biracial sample of middle-class male and female teachers (mean age = 38.5 ± 8.9 years) and one involved a biracial sample of lower- to middle-class males and females (mean age = 35.8 ± 5.1 years). Results. In both studies the social support scales had high internal consistencies and a two-component solution identical to the original validation study. In both studies, social support for exercise positively correlated with physical activity, but the relationships were mediated by race, gender, specific types of support (i.e., family, friend), and dimensions of physical activity (i.e., global, work, sports, and leisure). In both studies, regardless of work status and race, women's overall activity, particularly during leisure time, was positively related to family support for exercise. In both studies white women's overall activity levels, especially sports and leisure activities, were positively related to friend support. In both studies, black women's sports activity was positively associated with family support. Among white men in both studies, sports activities and total energy expenditure were positively related to family and friend support. Black men's sports-related activity was positively related to family support among the teachers and to friend support among subjects in the second study. Conclusion. Findings are discussed in terms of future research directed toward identification of other familial and sociocultural variables which might influence individuals' involvement in physical activity.