Do Physical Activity Beliefs Differ by Age and Gender?

Abstract

Age and gender are consistently related to physical activity (PA), yet theoretical explanation for these associations is scant. The present study compared the mean values and correlations of a population sample, divided by gender and age group, with respect to theory of planned behavior beliefs (behavioral, normative, and control) and PA. Participants were a sample (N=6,739) of adults (M age=49.65, SD=16.04) who completed measures of social and health demographics, theory of planned behavior beliefs, and self-reported PA. Mean analyses identified greater perceived control over PA for seniors than for young and middle-aged adults (N>.025). Belief-behavior correlations, however, were not different across age and gender in 24 of 26 tests (q<.19). Thus, PA beliefs are invariant across age and gender with the exception of mean levels of perceived control, which are lower among younger adults than older adults. Factors such as early parenthood and career demands were considered the likely reasons for differences. Overall, the evidence suggests that adapting theoretical models for specific age groups or based on gender may not be necessary.

Habit in the Physical Activity Domain: Integration With Intention Temporal Stability and Action Control

“…Finally, the convenience sample of primarily female undergraduate students in this study may not generalize to the population at large and replication of these findings would be prudent. It should be noted, however, that the TPB has been found generally invariant to age and gender as well as population subgroups in the physical activity domain (Hagger, Chatzisarantis, & Biddle, 2002;Rhodes, Blanchard, & Blacklock, 2008;Symons Downs & Hausenblas, 2005;Wankel & Mummery, 1993;Wankel, Mummery, Stephens, & Craig, 1994). We are unaware of any compelling evidence that would suggest that these results would not generalize to other populations.…”

Time Displacement and Confidence to Participate in Physical Activity

“…While people recognize that regular PA is beneficial for health, [4,5] general participation rates remain low [5,6]. Therefore, an understanding of PA participation is prudent in order to develop effective interventions.…”

Fatores pessoais, desportivos e psicológicos no comportamento de exercício físico

“…Para tal, recolhemos dados acerca do comportamento efetivo de exercício físico assumido pelos participantes, utilizando-se para este efeito o registo eletrónico de exercício numa academia desportiva. [10][11][12][13] , procurando-se neste trabalho testar o seu papel preditivo no comportamento de exercício físico, respondendo assim ao segundo objetivo deste trabalho.…”