Using social cognitive theory to explain physical activity in Iranian women preparing for pregnancy

Despite the known useful effects of regular physical activity during the preconception period on pregnancy outcomes, sedentary lifestyle is a prevalent phenomenon in reproductive-aged women. Using social cognitive theory (SCT) as its theoretical framework, the aim of this study was to explain physical activity model in the women preparing for pregnancy in Isfahan, Iran. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 220 Iranian women undergoing preconception care. The SCT constructs were measured using a researcher-made questionnaire. The duration of physical activity with moderate/severe intensity was also measured using the long form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. The data were analyzed using Spearman correlation coefficient and multivariable linear regression. The theoretical model was tested using structural equation modeling. The results showed that observational learning (β =.65, p <.0001) was the most important determinant of the physical activity level. The default model provided an adequate to good fit to the data (CMIN/DF = 2.10, p =.097). The results of the present study emphasized the role of observational learning in forming physical activity behavior in pre-pregnancy period; therefore, the design of interventions for providing the opportunity of observational learning may improve the level of physical activity among the women preparing for pregnancy.