Trait self-control, exercise and exercise ambition : Evidence from a healthy, adult population

• This study explores if self-control predicts exercise ambition and actual exercise, and if exercise ambition predicts actual exercise. Members and guests at a not-for-profit sports club were invited to participate. 264 individuals completed a self-reported (Self-Control Scale) measure of self-control, and responded to questions about actual exercise as well as exercise ambition prior to their workout. Main Outcome Measures are exercise ambition, actual exercise, and the difference between them. We find that trait self-control predicts both actual exercise and exercise ambition. Exercise ambition also predicts actual exercise. The results suggest a path from self-control, via exercise ambition, to actual exercise. Individuals with relatively low self-control might benefit from some aid in setting goals for their workouts and committing to exercise.

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap -- Hälso- och sjukvårdsorganisation, hälsopolitik och hälsoekonomi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences -- Health Care Service and Management, Health Policy and Services and Health Economy (hsv//eng)

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap -- Idrottsvetenskap (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences -- Sport and Fitness Sciences (hsv//eng)

Keyword

exercise

exercise ambition

exercise behaviour

physical activity

self-control

Publication and Content Type

art (subject category)

ref (subject category)