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Updated: Oct 29, 2025
05:59
Visualization of Intensity Levels to Reduce the Gap Between Self-Reported and Directly Measured Physical Activity
Published on: March 7, 2019
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What Predicts the Physical Activity Intention-Behavior Gap? A Systematic Review.
Ryan E Rhodes1, Amy Cox1, Reza Sayar1
1School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada.
Summary
Many factors influence whether intentions translate into physical activity (PA). Motivation, intention stability, and self-efficacy significantly moderate the intention-PA link, suggesting refined theories are needed.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Psychology of Physical Activity
- Health Behavior Theory
Background:
- Intention is a key predictor of behavior across many theories.
- However, a significant gap exists between intentions and actual behavior, particularly for physical activity.
- Understanding moderators of the intention-physical activity (I-PA) relationship is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize variables moderating the I-PA relationship.
- To organize findings using the capability-opportunity-motivation-behavior (COMB) model.
- To identify factors that strengthen or weaken the link between intending to be physically active and actual behavior.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a comprehensive literature search of seven databases up to August 2020.
- Included English-language, peer-reviewed studies empirically testing moderation of the I-PA relationship.
- Analyzed findings by moderator category, with subanalyses exploring sample, design, PA type, and quality.
Main Results:
- 129 independent studies (138 samples) of moderate quality were analyzed.
- Employment status and conscientiousness moderated I-PA.
- Reflective motivation (e.g., intention stability, self-efficacy) and automatic motivation (e.g., identity) were significant moderators.
- Physical and social/environmental opportunities did not show moderation; psychological capability was inconclusive.
Conclusions:
- Existing intention theories may require revision to incorporate identified I-PA moderators.
- Action control theories, integrating these moderators, can better identify individuals at risk of not achieving physical activity goals.
- This research provides a framework for understanding and potentially improving physical activity intention-behavior consistency.
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