Stages of change in two modes of health-enhancing physical activity: methodological aspects and promotional implications

Measurement scales for stages of change were developed and the stages were assessed in two specific modes of Health-Enhancing Physical Activity (HEPA) in a cross-sectional survey (N 1516); representative samples were selected from three age groups, i.e. from three phases of adult life. Outdoor Aerob ic Exercise (OAE) was used as an example of fitness activity; Everyday Comm uting Activity (ECA) was selected to represent lifestyle physical activity. Scales used by the Prochaska team were modified for this study, and the st ages of Precontemplation and Preparation were each divided into two new sta ges, Consistency of the stage measurement was moderate for OAE and good for EGA. As regards content validity, consistent associations were found betwe en stage scores and contextual variables for both behaviors. The results sh ow that, at a given time, a person can be in different stages in different modes of HEPA, Therefore, the behavior of interest must be specified before accurate information on the stages of change in a population can be obtain ed. The results also indicate the importance of contextual factors in HEPA promotion.