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 (R-2 = .43). When responses from each of the item clusters were summed, participants defined as adherents had significantly higher scores than dropouts. Discussion emphasized the need for replication and implications for exercise adherence intervention.