The Effects of Physical Activity Enjoyment on Sedentary Older Adults' Physical Activity Attitudes and Intentions1

This pilot study examined the effects of 2 types of acute physical activity bouts on enjoyment and subsequent change in attitudes and intentions regarding physical activity. Participants were 41 sedentary, older men and women ( M age = 75.4 years) randomized to a single bout of walking plus either (a) 2 sets of a resistance‐training circuit performed on weight machines (Weights); or (b) 1 set of the resistance circuit plus 1 set of strength‐based activities of daily living (Weights + ADL). The Weights condition enjoyed their bout more, and enjoyment mediated subsequent changes in attitudes. Both conditions increased their physical activity intentions. However, contrary to the tenets of the theory of planned behavior, increased intentions were not mediated by improved attitudes toward physical activity. These findings suggest that single bouts of activity can differentially affect sedentary older adults' thoughts toward being active in their daily lives.