Exercise Autonomous Motivation Predicts 3-yr Weight Loss in Women

• DOI: 10.1249/mss.0b013e3181f3818f
• Publication Date: 2010-08-05T07:08:18Z
• Authors: MARLENE N. SILVA; DAVID MARKLAND; ELIANA V. CARRAÇA; PAULO N. VIEIRA; SÍLVIA R. COUTINHO; CLÁUDIA S. MINDERICO; MARGARIDA G. MATOS; LUÍS B. SARDINHA; PEDRO J. TEIXEIRA
• Keywords: Weight change; Weight management; Physical exercise

This study evaluated exercise-related predictors of successful long-term weight control in women by analyzing the extent to which sustained exercise participation and self-determination theory (SDT)-based motivation variables mediated impact a behavioral intervention on 3-yr change.Longitudinal randomized controlled trial consisting 1-yr SDT-based 2-yr follow-up with 221 female participants (means ± SD: age = 37.6 7 yr, body mass index 31.6 4.1 kg·m(-2)). The tested model incorporated experimentally manipulated perceived need support, motivational regulations, adherence as mediators intervention's change. Paths were using partial least squares analysis. Where there significant intervening paths, tests mediation conducted.Treatment had effects 1- autonomous physical activity, change, fully paths (effect ratio 0.10-0.61). Moderate vigorous at 2 yr effect (P < 0.001) loss success 3 partially treatment regulation change only activity 0.42).This application SDT management showed that not all types predict outcomes moderate It provides strong evidence for link between increased maintenance. Results highlight importance interventions targeting internalization making positive meaningful experiences rather than simply focusing immediate behavior overweight/obese women.