Relationship of social cognitive theory factors to exercise maintenance in adults

Modifiable variables related to Bandura's social cognitive theory were tested for their relationship to self-reported retrospective exercise maintenance in 178 adults. Significant bivariate correlations were found between length of adherence to regular moderate-to-vigorous exercise and item clusters reflecting social support (r = .42), self-management ability (r =.39), and ability to tolerate exercise-induced discomfort (r = .60). Stepwise multiple regression analysis indicated that each item cluster significantly contributed to the overall explained variance in length of exercise maintenance over 52 weeks (R2 =.43). When responses from each of the item clusters were summed, participants defined as adherents had significantly higher scores than drop-outs. Discussion emphasized the need for replication and implications for exercise adherence intervention.