ATTITUDES AND BELIEFS ABOUT EXERCISE AMONG PERSONS WITH NON-INSULIN-DEPENDENT DIABETES

This study examined attitudes and beliefs about exercise among 83 pers ons with non-insulin-dependent diabetes who had completed outpatient d iabetes counseling. An adaptation of the Health Belief Model, labeled the Exercise Behavior Model, guided perceptual measures. Fifty-two per cent of the subjects were exercising 3 or more days per week. Those wi th a greater length of time since diabetes counseling were more likely to be currently exercising. Positive and negative attitudes toward ex ercise characterized the group; however; only negative attitudes were related to exercise. Both exercisers and nonexercisers perceived barri ers to exercise. Other people, chance happenings, physical discomfort, and perceptions of fitness, weight, and appearance played a role in w hether the subjects exercised. The results indicate that providing ass istance in identifying support for exercise and overcoming perceived b arriers to exercise may increase compliance to this important aspect o f the diabetes regimen.