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Published on: March 7, 2019
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Anxiety, Motives, and Intention for Physical Activity during the Italian COVID-19 Lockdown: An Observational
Federica Galli1, Francesco Giancamilli2, Tommaso Palombi2
1Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome, "Foro Italico", 00135 Rome, Italy.
Summary
Autonomous motivation and intention predict physical activity during lockdowns. Low anxiety strengthens the motivation-activity link, while high anxiety impacts intention-behavior relationships, highlighting the need for accessible physical activity promotion.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated strict containment measures, including home confinement, impacting population physical and mental health.
- Physical activity is crucial for chronic disease prevention and psychological well-being.
- Understanding motivations for physical activity during lockdowns is vital for public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the relationship between autonomous motivation and physical activity.
- To examine the mediating role of behavioral intention and the moderating role of anxiety in this relationship.
- To analyze these factors using a longitudinal moderated mediation model.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study involving 86 Italian participants (mean age = 29.74, SD = 9.74; 53.5% female).
- Participants completed questionnaires on motivation, intention, anxiety, and physical activity at two time points, 3 weeks apart.
- Statistical analysis employed a moderated mediation model to test the hypothesized relationships.
Main Results:
- Autonomous motivation and behavioral intention were confirmed as direct predictors of physical activity.
- The direct effect of autonomous motivation on physical activity was stronger in individuals with lower anxiety levels.
- High anxiety levels significantly moderated the relationship between intention and physical activity behavior.
Conclusions:
- Autonomous motivation and intention are key drivers of physical activity, even under restrictive conditions like lockdowns.
- Anxiety plays a significant role, influencing how motivation and intention translate into actual physical activity.
- A multidisciplinary approach is recommended to promote accessible methods and infrastructure for physical activity adherence during health emergencies.
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