On the importance of self-control strength for regular physical activity. (July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Finne, Emily; Englert, Chris; Jekauc, Darko
• Is Part Of: Psychology of sport and exercise. Volume 43(2019)
• Page Start: 165
• Page End: 171
• Publication Date: 2019-07
• Subjects: Intention-behavior gap -- Physical activity -- Self-control -- Self-regulation -- Sport; Sports -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Exercise -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Psychology -- Periodicals; Sports -- Periodicals; Exercise -- Periodicals; Societies, Medical -- Periodicals; Psychology; Sports; Exercise; Societies, Medical; Sports -- Aspect psychologique -- Périodiques; Exercice -- Aspect psychologique -- Périodiques; 613.71019
• DOI: 10.1016/j.psychsport.2019.02.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1469-0292

Abstract

Abstract: Objectives: Physical activity intentions do not automatically lead to physical activity behavior, indicating that there are other (psychological) factors involved. In the present study, we tested the assumption that self-control strength is required to bridge the intention-behavior gap in terms of initial and weekly intentions. Design: A total of N = 259 individuals, who registered for a weekly university sports course, were followed for 13 weeks. Methods: At baseline, trait self-control strength as well as the intention to take part in the respective sports course on a regular basis were measured. Then, we registered weekly participation and asked the participants after each training session to report their intention to show up at next week's training session. Results: Despite very high baseline as well as weekly exercise intentions, the participation rate dropped considerably over time, indicating a large intention-behavior gap. The association of within-person fluctuations in weekly intentions and actual participation was moderated by self-control: Only in individuals with high levels of trait self-control strength stronger intentions were associated with a higher chance of actual re-attendance. Baseline intention was also associated with participation but not moderated by self-control. Conclusions: These findings indicate that high levels of self-control strength are beneficial in order to translate short-term intentions into actual behavior. Practical implications on how to improve self-control are discussed. Highlights: 259 participants in university exercise courses were followed for 13 weeks. Course participation declined significantly over 3 months despite high intentions. Initial and weekly exercise intentions predicted course participation. High Self-control promotes the enactment of short-term exercise intentions. Weekly fluctuations in intentions are more important than absolute intention levels.