Perceived exercise self-efficacy as a predictor of exercise behavior in individuals aging with spinal cord injury.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesized association between exercise self-efficacy and exercise behavior, controlling for demographic variables and clinical characteristics, in a sample of individuals with spinal cord injuries.


METHODS
A cross-sectional national survey of 612 community-dwelling adults with spinal cord injury in the United States ranging from 18 to 89 yrs of age was conducted. Sample consisted of 63.1% men with a mean (SD) duration of 15.8 (12.79) yrs postinjury; 86.3% reported using a wheelchair.


RESULTS
Self-efficacy was the only independent variable that consistently predicted all four exercise outcomes. Self-efficacy beliefs were significantly related to frequency and intensity of resistance training (R(2) change = 0.08 and 0.03, respectively; P < 0.01 for all) and aerobic training (R(2) change = 0.07 and 0.05, respectively; P < 0.01 for all), thus explaining between 3% and 8% of the variance. Hierarchical linear regression analysis revealed that controlling for other demographic and physical capability variables, the age-related variables made statistically significant contributions and explained between 1% and 3% of the variance in aerobic exercise frequency and intensity (R(2) change = 0.01 and 0.03, respectively; P < 0.01 for all). Clinical functional characteristics but not demographic variables explained participation in resistance exercise.


CONCLUSIONS
Self-efficacy beliefs play an important role as predictors of exercise. Variations in exercise intensity along the age continuum have implications for exercise prescription and composition. Future research should replicate findings with objective activity measures.
Social Dimensions of Health Institute (SDHI), Universities of Dundee & St Andrews, Scotland, UK.
Thilo
T
Kroll
Anna
A
Kratz
Matthew
M
Kehn
Mark P
MP
Jensen
Suzanne
S
Groah
Inger H
IH
Ljungberg
Ivan R
IR
Molton
Charles
C
Bombardier
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D016014:Linear Models; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D005082:Physical Exertion; D055070:Resistance Training; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012737:Sex Factors; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014910:Wheelchairs; D055815:Young Adult