Stage of regular exercise and health-related quality of life

Background. Research on cognitive factors and motivational readiness for ex ercise is important for increasing our understanding of behavior change amo ng those with sedentary lifestyles. This study examines stage of change for regular exercise and self-perceived quality of life, Methods. Data are from 1,387 respondents to a random digit dial survey of h ealth behaviors. Stage of change is assessed with a single item, and indivi duals are classified with respect to intention and exercise behavior. Quali ty of life is assessed with the SF-36, a multidimensional measure of health -related quality of life, Results, Exercise stage is associated with self-perceived quality of life, The three areas most strongly related were physical. functioning, general h ealth perceptions, and vitality. Physical functioning scores were lowest in precontemplation and highest in maintenance. Vitality and mental health sc ales were related to exercise behavior, but not to intention. Conclusions. Cognitions about self-perceived quality of life vary across th e stages of change, with those who are least prepared to adopt regular exer cise reporting the lowest levels of quality of life, These findings suggest that cognitive-motivational messages designed to emphasize quality of life benefits associated with exercise may be useful intervention strategies fo r people who are less motivationally ready to change. (C) 1999 American Hea lth Foundation and Academic Press.