Predicting physical activity behaviour in male and female young adults. An application of the theory of Planned Behaviour

The health and psychological benefits to be gained from a physically active lifestyle are well documented. Despite this a substantial proportion of young adults do not engage in recommended frequency levels or duration of physical activity (PA) to procure these benefits. Only 13-32% of university students worldwide meet the recommended guidelines for PA. The present study employed a prospective questionnaire design to assess the predictive utility of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) in explaining PA intention and behaviour in male (N=76) and female (N=75) students aged between 18-28 (male mean age 21.08 ± 2.48 years & female mean age 21.78 ± 2.54) years. The sample completed a baseline TPB questionnaire and a follow-up PA behaviour measure. Findings supported the utility of the TPB in predicting PA intention and behaviour, though the relative contribution of the models, and the strength of association between the TPB constructs varied depending on gender. The findings have a practical and theoretical significance, as PA programmes for students tailored to gender may be warranted.