Variations in Self-Determination Across the Stages of Change for Exercise in Adults1

This study explored the relationship between self-determination in the regulation of exercise behavior and stage of change for exercise. Deci and Ryan (1985, 1990) outlined a continuum of behavioral regulation that ranges from non-self-determined regulation (external regulation) to completely self-determined regulation (intrinsic regulation). Prochaska and DiClemente (1984) outlined five stages of behavior change that range from no thoughts of changing (precontemplation) to maintenance of change (maintenance). In our study, 314 individuals completed measures of regulation in exercise behavior and stage of change for exercise. Discriminant function analysis revealed that those in the latter stages of change were more self-determined in their behavioral regulation than those in the early stages of change. An analysis of variance indicated that self-determination increased from the lower to the upper stages of change. Results endorse the importance of motivational considerations in understanding the change process. In the field of exercise promotion it is accepted that success in adhering to a program of regular exercise is, to a large extent, dependent on the reasons for which exercise is undertaken (e.g., Biddle, 1992a, 1992b; Biddle & Bailey, 1985; Duda, 1989; Markland & Hardy, 1993). Individuals report-ing intrinsic reasons for exercise, such as enjoyment and feeling good, typi-cally exhibit greater levels of adherence to exercise than those who report exercising for extrinsic reasons, such as compliance with external pressures 'This manuscript was prepared while the first author was in receipt of the Price-Davies scholarship from the University of Wales. The behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire is available from the first author on request. 2Address all correspondence concerning this article to Elaine Mullan, Department o