Article
Enhancing Self-Regulatory and Exercise Readiness in Pregnant Women
Psychology of Sport and Exercise
(2012)
Abstract
Objectives: Despite the benefits associated with exercise during pregnancy, many expectant mothers are inactive.
Design: The present study examined whether persuasive messages could influence task and scheduling self-efficacy, exercise intention, action plans, and behavioral commitment among pregnant women.
Methods: After completing premanipulation task and scheduling self-efficacy and exercise intention measures, participants (n ¼ 125) were randomly assigned to read one of four efficacy-enhancing messages: scheduling, task, combined scheduling/task, or control. Postmanipulation task and scheduling self-efficacy, intentions and action plans and behavioral commitment were then assessed.
Results: Repeated-measures ANOVAs revealed that compared to the control group, inactive participants who read the persuasive messages reported significant increases in scheduling self-efficacy, task self-efficacy, and intention from premanipulation to postmanipulation as well significantly stronger action plans.
Conclusions: Written persuasive messages may promote exercise behavior during pregnancy by increasing scheduling and task self-efficacy, intention, and action plans for exercise.
Keywords
- Pregnancy,
- Exercise,
- Self-Efficacy Theory,
- Health Psychology
Disciplines
Publication Date
2012
Citation Information
Anca Gaston, Anita G Cramp and Harry Prapavessis. "Enhancing Self-Regulatory and Exercise Readiness in Pregnant Women" Psychology of Sport and Exercise Vol. 13 (2012) Available at: http://works.bepress.com/anita_cramp/2/