Predictive Factors of Physical Activity Based on Self Determination Theory Using Path Analysis in Women of Reproductive Age

Background: Identification of psychological processes associated with increased physical activity (PA) i.e., sustainable motivation, is limited. Over recent years, self-determination theory (SDT) has been widely used to study long term PA motivation. Using path analysis in women in the reproductive age, the current study was conducted with the aim to investigate predictive factors of PA based on SDT. Methods: This cross sectional study was carried out on 412 women aged 15-49 years in Tonekabon, Mazandaran in the north of Iran in 2015. Path analysis was used to investigate the relationship between psychological need satisfaction, PA motivation, healthcare climate, various motivation types and PA. Additionally, path analysis was used to investigate the appropriateness of SDT for PA. Results: Perception of autonomy, enjoyment, health, appearance and social motives indirectly correlated with PA through Relative Autonomy Index (RAI). Moreover, RAI, perception of autonomy and social motive directly correlated with PA. These variables accounted for 56% of the variance in PA. Conclusion: Findings from this study can be used to design SDT-based interventions. In order to promote PA among women in the reproductive age, the autonomous behavioral regulation, perception of autonomy, and social motive should be strengthened.