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Relationship between adherence to exercise and scores on extraversion and neuroticism
1Institute for Sport and Movement Studies, University of Stellenbosch, Republic of South Africa.
Perceptual and Motor Skills
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Individuals who exercise regularly are less likely to exhibit high levels of neuroticism. Drop-outs from exercise programs show significantly higher neuroticism scores compared to adherers.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Health Psychology
Background:
- Understanding factors influencing exercise adherence is crucial for public health.
- Personality traits may play a significant role in sustained physical activity.
- Previous research suggests a link between personality and exercise behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between personality traits and adherence to an exercise program.
- To identify specific personality characteristics that differentiate exercise adherers from drop-outs.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study involving 116 subjects participating in an on-campus exercise facility over one year.
- Classification of subjects into 'adherers' and 'drop-outs' based on program participation.
- Assessment of personality traits using the Eysenck Personality Inventory.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in extraversion scores between adherers and drop-outs.
- Drop-outs exhibited significantly higher neuroticism scores compared to adherers.
- Neuroticism emerged as a key differentiator between sustained and discontinued exercise participation.
Conclusions:
- High neuroticism may be a predictor of dropping out from exercise programs.
- Interventions targeting individuals with high neuroticism could improve exercise adherence.
- Personality assessment might inform personalized exercise recommendations to enhance long-term engagement.