Physical activity and stage-based approaches: let’s do it in stages

In this chapter we consider models that have been used as potentially better ways of understanding physical activity than more single-theory approaches. In particular, we focus on stage-based approaches and specically the ‘Transtheoretical Model’. Other frameworks are also considered, including the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA). Specically, in this chapter we aim to:

● outline the ‘Transtheoretical Model’ approach to physical activity behaviour change; ● consider research ndings and the constructs of self-ecacy, pros and cons, and processes

of change, including evidence from systematic reviews and interventions; ● outline the ‘hybrid’ Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) as applied to physical activity; ● discuss the ‘natural history’ model of exercise proposed by Sallis and Hovell (1990) and

suggest which determinants may be important at the dierent phases of the model; ● consider the relapse prevention model and data from physical activity research.