BEHAVIORAL DETERMINANTS OF EXERCISE ADHERENCE IN MIDDLE-AGED ADULTS: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY PERSPECTIVE

Authors

  • Dr. V. R. Shyanbhag Assistant Professor, Dr. A. V. Baliga College of Arts & Science Kumta, Uttara Kannada,

Keywords:

Exercise adherence, middle-aged fitness, behavioral psychology, motivation, self-efficacy, gender differences, health behavior, social support, fitness barriers, interdisciplinary approach..

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Middle-aged adults often find themselves caught between professional responsibilities, familial commitments, and emerging health concerns, which together shape their lifestyle habits, including physical activity. Although the benefits of regular exercise are well-known—such as improved cardiovascular health, better mental well-being, and reduced risk of chronic diseases—sustaining a consistent fitness routine during this life phase remains a widespread challenge. This study investigates the key behavioral determinants influencing exercise adherence among individuals aged 40 to 60, incorporating perspectives from behavioral science, psychology, and social theory. A cross-sectional analysis was performed with 280 participants from urban regions, with equal representation of men and women. Standardized instruments including the Exercise Motivation Inventory (EMI-2), Self-Efficacy Scale, and Social Support Questionnaire were administered to assess various influencing factors. The findings show that intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy, and social reinforcement are significant predictors of long-term exercise commitment, while perceived barriers like time constraints and competing responsibilities contribute to lower adherence. Gender differences were also observed, with men often driven by health concerns and social comparison, and women hindered by family obligations. This research underlines the importance of tailored interventions that acknowledge behavioral patterns, enabling sustainable health practices in middle-aged populations.

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References

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Published

2025-09-11

How to Cite

Dr. V. R. Shyanbhag. (2025). BEHAVIORAL DETERMINANTS OF EXERCISE ADHERENCE IN MIDDLE-AGED ADULTS: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY PERSPECTIVE. International Journal of Behavioral Social and Movement Sciences Established in March 2014 | Published Quarterly (March, June, September, December), 13(01), 33–42. Retrieved from https://ijobsms.org/index.php/ijobsms/article/view/527

Issue

Vol. 13 No. 01 (2024): JAN-MARCH 2024

Section

Articles

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