Adolescent Values and Exercise Behaviors

In recent decades, there has been a significant increase in adolescent obesity in America (Mayo Clinic, 2006). Given this, there is a corresponding need to develop targeted adolescent obesity interventions. The current study examined how a psychosocially based intervention impacted adolescents\u27 perceived value, frequency, and amount of exercise. Participants included 55 adolescents, (28 male, 26 female) ranging in age from 15-18. Separated by class, the three groups included one control group and two separate intervention groups. All groups completed an Exercise Checklist (Anshel, 2006), measuring the value, :frequency, and amount of exercise prior to any intervention. Classes then received different levels of the intervention including a psycho-educational presentation and three-week exercise challenge. Exercise value, frequency, and amounts were re-assessed at weeks three, six, and a twelve. Findings showed that an adolescent\u27s value, :frequency, and amount of exercise increased post intervention. Overall, this indicates that when educated about the psychological benefits of exercise, and then challenged to choose a reasonable exercise regime, adolescents are more likely to value exercise and increase the amount of times they exercise on a weekly basis