Promoting Physical Activity as a Lifestyle through Use of Behavioral Change Theories

With the rise of sedentary lifestyles in the United States, an increase in physical activity is needed to combat the consequences of sedentary behavior. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) work regularly with patients struggling with injuries and diseases stemming from inactivity. Research has shown numerous benefits of regular physical activity, yet only half of Americans engage in enough physical activity to be considered active. Theories of behavioral change have been developed to help patients become physically active and maintain activity as part of their lifestyle. The Transtheoretical Model (TTM) and the Social-Cognitive Theory (SCT) are examples of effective models in promoting physical activity by employing techniques to promote behavioral change. These two models will be the focus of the following thesis