Using Psychometric Testing Procedures for Scale Validity, Reliability, and Invariance Analysis: The PRETIE-Q...

Area of Science:

• Exercise Science
• Psychometrics
• Physical Activity Research

Background:

• Understanding exercise intensity preference and tolerance is crucial for promoting physical activity adherence.
• The Preference for and Tolerance of the Intensity of Exercise Questionnaire (PRETIE-Q) is a key measure in this field.
• Re-examining the psychometric properties of the PRETIE-Q ensures its continued validity and applicability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To re-examine the psychometric properties of the PRETIE-Q among Portuguese exercisers.
• To assess the applicability of the PRETIE-Q across different exercise activities and experiences.
• To investigate the measurement invariance of the PRETIE-Q in diverse participant groups.

Main Methods:

• Exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) was employed to analyze the psychometric structure of the PRETIE-Q.
• Multigroup analysis was conducted to test for measurement invariance.
• The study included 1117 Portuguese participants with varying exercise habits.

Main Results:

• ESEM demonstrated the best model fit for the PRETIE-Q.
• The questionnaire exhibited measurement invariance across different groups in the multigroup analysis.
• Differential recognition of preference and tolerance was observed across various exercise modalities.

Conclusions:

• The ESEM analysis confirmed the psychometric validity and invariance of the PRETIE-Q.
• The PRETIE-Q should be utilized as a multidimensional instrument for assessing exercise intensity preference and tolerance.
• Context-verified measures are essential for accurately evaluating exercise intensity preference and tolerance, considering sample characteristics and real-time context.