Exercise and health psychology: emerging relationships

The increasing prominence of health psychology has been paralleled by developments in the study of the psychology of health-related exercise. Evidence has been amassed which supports the efficacy of regular physical activity in reducing the risks of some debilitating health conditions such as coronary heart disease and obesity, as well as the promotion of physical function and mental well-being. The significance of exercise as a health-related behaviour has brought to the fore the need to address motivational problems associated with its adoption and maintenance. In this respect, exercise psychology research would appear to provide potential for guiding significant public health initiatives. This paper addresses the issues of exercise and mental health and exercise motivation with a view to highlighting key sections of the exercise psychology literature for health and medical psychologists.