A Behavioral Analysis of Exercise Adherence Predictors and Its Economic Impact in the Fitness Context
Supporting Agencies
- Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology, I.P., Grant/Award Number UIDB/04045/2020 (https://doi.org/10.54499/UIDB/04045/2020)
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the relationship between clients' perceptions of exercise physiologists' behaviors, motivational types, and their subsequent influence on exercise adherence over a six-month. Additionally, we assessed the financial impact of client dropout on fitness center revenues during this timeframe. Methods: A sample of 1,803 individuals (ages 18-54; M = 26.61, SD = 5.48) enrolled in fitness centers across Portugal participated in this study. Results: Over the six-month period, 42% of clients canceled their memberships, resulting in an estimated monthly revenue loss of €28,659.60 by the end of the sixth month. Cumulatively, the fitness centers experienced a total revenue loss of €110,393.27 during the study period. Conclusions: The findings suggest that need-supportive behaviors from physiologists are positively associated with autonomous motivation, which in turn promotes long-term exercise adherence. In contrast, need-thwarting behaviors are linked to controlled motivation, which negatively impacts exercise maintenance. These insights highlight the importance of motivational strategies in both client retention and financial sustainability for fitness centers.
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