This study will evaluate adherence to four types of walking programs. Participants will be randomized to walking programs that included either (1) affect-based exercise intensity, (2) self-selected (or "choice-based") exercise intensity, (3) heart-rate based exercise intensity, or (4) heart-rate guided exercise intensity with the emphasis on affective benefits.
The purpose of this study is to determine if an "affect-based" or "choice-based" exercise prescription is more effective for behavior change than a traditional, "moderate-intensity" exercise prescription. Prior research suggests that "choice-based" or "self-selected" exercise intensity is more pleasant and adhered to than "moderate-intensity exercise" (Williams et al., 2014). Similarly, affect-based exercise prescriptions (i.e., an exercise prescription where intensity is regulated based on the pleasure-displeasure one feels while exercising) appear to have merit (Baldwin, Kangas, Denman, Smits, Yamada, \& Otto, 2016). However, choice-based and affect-based exercise prescriptions have not been compared to each other. Further, it is unknown if it is the intensity regulation that matters (e.g., "choose an intensity that feels good" or the focus on affect (e.g., "focus on feeling good). Third, prior research has not objectively measured physical activity behavior.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
159
Participants are instructed to choose whichever intensity they want, rather than regulate their intensity based on heart rate.
Participants are instructed to focus on feeling good while exercising.
Participants are instructed to regulate their exercise intensity based on their heart rate.
Duke University IBRC Lab
Durham, North Carolina, United States
Change in objectively measured exercise behavior
Minutes per week of objectively measured exercise behavior.
Time frame: This will be measured throughout the baseline assessment period (2 weeks) and intervention period (4 weeks)
Change in self-reported exercise behavior
Minutes per week of self-reported exercise behavior that is reported using exercise log.
Time frame: This will be measured throughout the baseline assessment period (2 weeks) and intervention period (4 weeks)
Change in affective attitudes
Affective attitudes toward exercise
Time frame: Measured during baseline assessment period and at the end of the intervention
Self-reported intrinsic motivation (questionnaires)
Intrinsic motivation for exercise program
Time frame: Two weeks into study intervention
Enjoyment
Enjoyment of exercise program.
Time frame: Measured at the end of the intervention period (4 weeks)
Change in weight
Body weight
Time frame: Measured at the beginning and end of the study (6 weeks).
Change in resting heart rate
Resting heart rate
Time frame: Measured at the beginning and end of the study (6 weeks).
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