Midlife women's physical activity goals: Sociocultural influences and effects on behavioral regulation

Abstract

A better understanding of midlife women's exercise goals could offer insight into the psychosocial facilitators and barriers to their participation. A random sample of US working women (40-60 years) was taken, and resulted in 262 participants. Cluster analysis identified participants' most important physical activity goal. A five goal cluster solution was identified: (1) sense of well-being; (2) weight loss; (3) health benefits; (4) stress reduction; and (5) weight maintenance/toning. The goal cluster solution was validated and suggested relevant sociocultural influences and potential effects on behavioral regulation (p∈