Review IDs determinants of physical activity in women

(HealthDay)—For women, positive and consistent determinants of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) include higher self-efficacy, self-rated health and intentions, and perceived behavioral control, according to a review published online July 28 in Obesity Reviews.

Stephanie A. Prince, Ph.D., from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute in Canada, and colleagues searched six databases to identify prospective cohort studies that reported on intrapersonal, social, and/or physical environmental determinants of MVPA in women aged 18 to 65 years. Ninety-seven studies were included in the analysis.

The researchers found that 87 of the studies reported on one or more intrapersonal determinants. Thirty-four of the studies examined factors in the social and physical environments; none of them examined social policy. Higher self-efficacy, self-rated health and intentions, and perceived behavioral control were positive and consistent influencers of being physically active. There was a negative correlation between having children in the household and MVPA.

"Physical activity intervention studies should consider a woman's level of self-efficacy and perceived behavioral control to be physically active," the authors write. "Additional studies are needed on the impact of children in the household, having a spouse/partner, and using group goal setting. More evidence is needed to evaluate the impact of environmental factors."

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