Understanding the Decision-Making Processes Associated with Exercise

Abstract

Only 37% of Australians perform exercise at a level sufficient to achieve benefits to their health (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2010). As a result, a substantial proportion of the Australian population is at increased risk of developing a range of physical ailments associated with low levels of exercise, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and osteoporosis (Warburton, Nicol, & Bredin, 2006). Particular attention has therefore been directed towards developing and evaluating campaigns aimed at increasing rates of exercise. However, these campaigns are only likely to be successful if they adequately leverage the decision-making processes that influence exercise behaviour. Thus, the aim of this study was to better understand how Australians decide whether or not to engage in exercise.