Applying the Transtheoretical Model to the Study of Exercise on Prescription

Abstract

This study examines the application of key constructs of the transtheoretical model and an integrated perceived barrier construct to exercise behaviour. Research participants were middle-aged, sedentary, males and females ( N = 393) who were referred by their general practitioner for a three-month prescription of exercise. Partial support for the use of the transtheoretical model in a UK sample was found. The decisional balance measure, in particular the cons of exercising, reflected hypothesized differences across the stages of change. However, in contrast to previous studies, scores on efficacy items were not significantly associated with stage. A potentially influential effect of barriers to exercise on different stages of behaviour was evident. Implications for recruitment, intervention and research are discussed.