The effects of training group exercise class instructors to adopt a motivationally adaptive communication style

• DOI: 10.1111/sms.12713
• Publication Date: 2016-06-10T09:50:17Z
• Authors: N. Ntoumanis; C. Thøgersen‐Ntou...; E. Quested; J. Hancox
• Keywords: CLIPS; Attrition

Drawing from self‐determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 2002), we developed and tested an intervention to train fitness instructors adopt a motivationally adaptive communication style when interacting with exercisers. This was parallel group, two‐arm quasi‐experimental design. Participants in the arm were 29 indoor cycling ( n = 10 for control arm) 246 class members 75 arm). The consisted of face‐to‐face workshops, education/information video clips, group discussions activities, brainstorming, individual planning, practical tasks studio. Instructors exercisers responded validated questionnaires about instructors’ use motivational strategies other motivation‐related variables before first workshop at end third final (4 months later). Time × interactions revealed no significant effects, possibly due large attrition arm. Within‐group analyses showed that exercisers’ perceptions instructor strategies, psychological need satisfaction, intentions remain increased over time. Similarly, reported being less controlling experiencing more satisfaction These results offer initial promising evidence positive impact training.