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Physical activity as an investment or consumption good-a mixed methods approach
Virpi Kuvaja-Köllner1,2, Sanna Laulainen1, Juuso Kautonen3
1Department of Health and Social Management, University of Eastern Finland, POB 1627, FIN-70211 Kuopio, Finland.
Health Promotion International
|February 21, 2023
Summary
Understanding physical activity motivation is key. A mixed motivation, combining enjoyment and health investment, significantly increases weekly exercise hours compared to single motivations.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Health Psychology
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Physical activity engagement is often debated as either a consumption good (enjoyment) or an investment good (health).
- Identifying distinct motivational profiles for various physical activities is crucial for understanding adult participation.
- Exploring the relationship between motivational factors and the type/quantity of physical activity is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify distinct motivational backgrounds for different forms of physical activity in adults.
- To investigate the association between various motivational factors and the form and amount of physical activity undertaken by adults.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews (n=20) and quantitative questionnaires (n=156).
- Qualitative data analyzed using content analysis.
- Quantitative data analyzed using factor and regression analysis.
Main Results:
- Identified motivational types include: mixed (enjoyment/investment), dislike, social, goal-focused, appearance-focused, and comfort zone exercisers.
- A mixed motivational background (enjoyment and health investment) significantly increased weekly physical activity hours (β = 1.733; p = 0.001).
- Appearance-focused motivation increased muscle training and brisk activity; enjoyment-focused motivation increased balance-focused exercise.
Conclusions:
- Adults exhibit diverse motivational backgrounds for physical activity.
- A combined motivation for enjoyment and health investment leads to greater physical activity duration.
- Tailoring interventions to specific motivational profiles may enhance physical activity engagement.
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