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Group cohesion and social support in exercise classes: results from a danish intervention study
Ulla Christensen1, Lone Schmidt, Esben Budtz-Jørgensen
1Department of Social Medicine, Institute of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, DK-2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark. u.christensen@socmed.ku.dk
Summary
Group cohesion and social support in exercise programs enhance self-efficacy and exercise activity in sedentary adults. This suggests group dynamics are key for promoting physical activity.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Science
- Social Psychology
- Community Health
Background:
- Sedentary lifestyles contribute to public health challenges.
- Community-based interventions are crucial for promoting physical activity.
- Understanding group dynamics is essential for effective exercise programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine group cohesion and social support formation in exercise classes for former sedentary adults.
- To analyze the impact of group dynamics on sustained exercise activity.
- To identify factors influencing group cohesion in community-based interventions.
Main Methods:
- A multimethod approach combining survey data and 18 personal interviews.
- Grounded theory analysis applied to data from 87 intervention participants.
- Qualitative and quantitative data integration for comprehensive insights.
Main Results:
- Group cohesion formation was influenced by group composition, instructor effectiveness, and activity type.
- Cohesive groups fostered mutual support for exercise activities.
- Mutual support enhanced participants' self-efficacy and mastery expectations regarding exercise.
Conclusions:
- Group dynamics, including cohesion and social support, significantly impact exercise adherence.
- Instructor ability and group composition are critical factors in fostering supportive exercise environments.
- Leveraging group dynamics presents a promising strategy for promoting leisure-time physical activity.
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