title: Gaining qualitative insight into the subjective experiences of adherers to an exercise referral scheme: A thematic analysis.
abstract: Nine adults who had completed an exercise referral scheme participated in a semi-structured interview to uncover the key psychological factors associated with adherence to the scheme. Through thematic analysis, an exercise identity emerged to be a major factor associated with adherence to the scheme, which was formed of a number of underpinning constructs including changes in self-esteem, changes in self-efficacy and changes in self-regulatory strategies. Also, an additional theme of transitions in motivation to exercise was identified, showing participants' motivation to alter from extrinsic to intrinsic reasons to exercise during the scheme.
authors.affiliation: 1 Canterbury Christ Church University, UK.
authors.forename: Michael John
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Eynon
authors.affiliation: 2 University of the West of Scotland, UK.
authors.forename: Christopher
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: O'Donnell
authors.affiliation: 2 University of the West of Scotland, UK.
authors.forename: Lynn
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Williams
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D015444:Exercise / Q000523:psychology*; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000523:psychology*; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012017:Referral and Consultation
keywords: exercise identity; exercise referral scheme; motivation; qualitative research; thematic analysis