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Open Access 02-11-2022 | Original Article

The art of forming habits: applying habit theory in changing physical activity behaviour

Authors: Mohammad Delwer Hossain Hawlader, Nusrat-E Mozid, Shakila Sharmin, Imran Hossain Monju, Sanjana Binte Ahmed, Wharesha Sarker, Mohammad Ashraful Amin, Shirin Shahadat Jhumur, Koustuv Dalal

Published in: Journal of Public Health | Issue 12/2023

Abstract

Background

Habits are obtained as a consequence of cue-contingent behavioural repetition. Context cues stimulate strong habits without an individual contemplating that action has been initiated. Because of its health-enhancing effects, making physical activity a part of one’s life is essential. This study examined the associations of physical activity (PA) behaviours with PA habits and the role of autonomous motivation in developing PA habits.

Methods

This study used a cross-sectional design. A structured questionnaire was implemented through emails to 226 university students, where PA levels, habits and autonomous motivation were self-reported.

Results

Binary logistic regression identified age groups, gender and participants who were trying to lose weight as the significant predictors in meeting physical activity guidelines. Path analysis showed that moderate-intensity physical activity (β = 0.045, CI = 0.069–0.248) and strength training exercises (β = 0.133, CI = 0.148–0.674) were significantly associated with PA habits (p < 0.01). Autonomous motivation was directly associated with PA habits (β = 0.062, CI = [0.295–0.541], p < 0.01) and was also significantly related to moderate-intensity physical activity (β = 0.243, CI = [0.078–0.266], p < 0.01) and strength training exercises (β = 0.202, CI = [0.033–0.594], p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The emphasis on experiment-based logic and interest in habit formation in the research community is extensive. As the college years offer an excellent opportunity to establish healthy behavioural interventions, encouraging students in regular PA and exhibiting an autonomous motivation towards PA may be necessary.

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Title: The art of forming habits: applying habit theory in changing physical activity behaviour
Authors: Mohammad Delwer Hossain Hawlader
Nusrat-E Mozid
Shakila Sharmin
Imran Hossain Monju
Sanjana Binte Ahmed
Wharesha Sarker
Mohammad Ashraful Amin
Shirin Shahadat Jhumur
Koustuv Dalal
Publication date: 02-11-2022
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Journal of Public Health / Issue 12/2023
Print ISSN: 2198-1833
Electronic ISSN: 1613-2238
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10389-022-01766-4

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

The art of forming habits: applying habit theory in changing physical activity behaviour

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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