Preliminary estimates of effects of a cognitive behavioral treatment system on drop-out rates in exercise programs at...

The effect of a treatment system based on principles of social cognitive and cognitive behavioral theory was estimated through case studies conducted in three YMCA fitness facilities. Significant (p < .05) reductions in drop-out rates of 23% (Georgia sample; n = 171), 27% (California sample; n = 159), and 21% (Florida sample; = 83) were found for the new and returning exercisers over the 5- and 6-mo. study time frames. Age was not related to drop-out rates in the treatment groups. Findings were consistent with previous research on earlier versions of the present treatment system, conducted with larger sample sizes within different fitness and wellness venues in the USA, U.K., and Italy. Replication, more detailed assessment of outputs of exercise, and tests of further revisions of the protocol were suggested to extend this preliminary research.