Predicting adoption and maintenance of physical activity in the context of dual-process theories

In the present paper, we introduce a new theoretical model of self-regulation of physical activity. In particular, our model focusses on the explanation and identification of predictors of physical activity adoption and maintenance (PAAM model). Based on dual-process theories of self-regulation we postulate explicit (i.e., reflective, deliberate) and implicit (i.e., affective, automatic) processes to explain adoption and maintenance of physical activity behavior. Explicit processes include intention, trait self-regulation and executive functions while implicit processes combine affective processes and habit formation. These processes not only have direct effects on physical activity adoption and maintenance, but also have moderating and interacting effects. Future work should test these predictions empirically for physical activity and other health-related behaviors.