Date of Graduation

2000

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

The present study examined the multiple domain predictor profiles of successful exercise behavior in a health resort population. Successful exercise behavior is operationally defined as maintaining, or changing from a sedentary or somewhat sedentary lifestyle to, an engagement in physical activity at least three times a week for at least twenty minutes each bout (ACSM, 1983). Demographic information, physiological variables, health status and risk factors were assessed at baseline from a sample of repeat guests from a southwestern health and fitness resort. A number of independent variables from each of the three domains were assessed for their ability to predict the criterion variable of reported physical activity level at the guest's second visit. Each domain was utilized in a separate regression analysis and then a full prediction model was designed with the strongest predictors from the individual analyses. Most of the explained variance in the criterion variable was predicted by initial physical activity, perceived overall health, social ties, and smoking status at baseline for the entire sample. Additionally, the present study attempted to track behavioral health service utilization. A comparison of service usage between individuals who engaged in successful exercise behavior and unsuccessful exercise behavior was conducted. There was no significant difference found between the aforementioned groups. Also, no gender differences for seeking the social support of a behavioral health therapist were found. Future research needs to replicate these findings as well as examine other possible contributing factors. Additionally, research efforts need to explore in greater detail the effect that behavioral health interventions have on varied populations' exercise behaviors.

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