Optimal experiences and exercise adherence : the role of flow and motivation

Abstract

The purpose of this study was three-fold: (1) to determine if there was a relationship between flow experienced by exercise participants, motivation to exercise, and exercise adherence; (2) to what extent is flow associated with exercise adherence; and (3) what are the differences (if any) in flow experienced and motivation to exercise among active versus less active exercise participants. The study used a cross-sectional quantitative survey design. A purposive sampling technique was used to recruit 100 individuals who participated in various physical activity programs within St. John's, NL (Mage = 27.8; 80% female). Exercise adherence was measured using the Sports Physical Activity Index (Sports PA) of the Baecke Questionnaire of Habitual Physical Activity. Predictor variables included flow experienced during exercise participation (Dispositional Flow Scale-2) and motivation to exercise (Motives for Physical Activities Measure-Revised). Results determined that flow did not have a strong relationship with physical activity adherence. Future research suggests examining other variables such as efficacy for flow and goal orientations. As this study was exploratory in nature, it is suggested that this study be replicated and expanded to examine athletes in highly competitive situations.