Motivators for Adhering to a Sustained Walking Program
By Richard Shank
Researchers in the U.K. published a study outlining the factors that lead to successfully sustaining a physical activity program.
It is common sense to suggest that sustained and adequately vigorous physical activity has both psychological and physical health benefits. Only a small percentage of older adults, however, perform enough physical activity to have a long-term impact on health.
Previous research on the motivators and de-motivators of physical activity have examined the impact of home-based exercise programs vs. workout programs at a gym, the impact of pedometers and accelerometers, social support, and the importance of realistic goal-setting. This research found that home-based programs that require minimal specialty clothing or equipment provide self-paced programming and are easier to integrate into daily life. Pedometers and accelerometers provide a good short-term incentive to increase physical activity; however, their impact disappears over the long-term.
The current research project examined the impact of a 12-week walking program on 38 men with high cholesterol. The study utilized semi-structured interviews, asking them about their motivations for participating in the program, whether they were walking actively, and their overall activity level.
The researchers found that those participants who felt they had external support and were motivated by general health concerns rather than “to get fit,” “to feel better,” “lose weight” or for “enjoyment” were more likely to adhere to the walking program. Lack of time was the biggest de-motivator for those who quit the program.
Program coordinators who struggle with keeping participants motivated should tie physical activities to overall health and well-being and ensure that participants feel they have adequate support in pursuing their goals.
Source: Coghill, N. Cooper, A. 2009. Motivators and de-motivators for adherence to a program of sustained walking. Preventive Medicine 49:24-27.
Comments? Tell us what you think: askaia@matherlifeways.com
