Synergistic Effects of Planning and Self-Efficacy on Physical Activity

Many individuals are motivated to improve their physical activity levels but often fail to act on their good intention. This study examines the roles of planning and self-efficacy in the prediction of physical activity. A total of 290 participants (77% women, mean age = 41.9 years) were surveyed three times. Intentions, planning, and physical activity were specified as a mediator chain. Results reveal that intentions were partly translated into physical activity by planning. Self-efficacy moderated this mediation, reflected by a planning x self-efficacy interaction (p < .05) on physical activity accounting for 16% of the variance in behavior. If a person is self-efficacious, planning seems more likely to be translated into physical activity.