A percepção de autoeficácia e a impulsividade na prática de atividade física

Abstract

Regular physical activity is an important habit for health and well-being. However, its full adherence is challenged by cognitive-behavioral factors involved in this process, such as perceived self-efficacy and impulsivity. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate how perceived self-efficacy and impulsivity influence physical activity habits and performance. Sixty-eight (68) participants aged 18 to 60 years (M = 29.3; SD = 11.6) responded to seven instruments: 1) a sociodemographic questionnaire; 2) a short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ); 3) Regular Physical Exercise Adherence Scale (REPEAS); 4) a translated version of the Self-Reported Habit Index (IAH); 5) New General Self-Efficacy Scale (NGSE); 6) the Physical Activity Self-Efficacy Scale; and 7) Abbreviated version of the Barratt Impulsivity Scale (ABIS). The results of this cross-sectional study showed negative correlations between time spent on physical activity, the habit of this practice, and environmental and personal obstacles to adherence, as well as between general selfefficacy and environmental and personal obstacles to adherence. Furthermore, general selfefficacy and impulsivity correlated negatively. Furthermore, time spent on physical activity and the habit of practicing it correlated positively. These findings reveal the importance of cognitive-behavioral understanding of physical activity habits, demonstrating the relevance of considering them in the development of strategies that enable adherence and, thus, promote health and well-being.