Setting goals to improve your fitness and become more physically active is well and good.
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But sport and exercise psychology researcher Dr Christian Swann thinks there could be a better way of getting and staying in shape.
To prove his point Dr Swann and fellow University of Wollongong researchers are searching for participants to take part in a new study looking at ways to help us increase our physical activity.
But in particular the “Increasing physical activity in ageing adults through open goals” study will look at how different approaches to goal-setting effects people’s ability to stick with a fitness program.
Alarmingly, 60 per cent of Australian adults are physically inactive, therefore a major public health concern is how to promote physical activity.
- Dr Christian Swann
‘’The common approach is pretty much around SMART (Specific, Measurable, Realistic, Time Bound) goals to get people physically active,’’ Dr Swann said.
‘’But there’s some good evidence from other domains outside exercise and physical activity that suggest that in certain situations that prescriptive, specific approach to goal setting isn’t anywhere as effective as other measures.’’
The study supported by UOW’s Global Challenges Program, is trialling a new approach to goal setting that aims to increase long-term adherence to regular exercise by optimising the experience of being physically active.
Dr Swann said physical activity is an essential mechanism for Australians to maintain good physical and mental health, and to live well, longer.
‘’Alarmingly, 60 per cent of Australian adults are physically inactive, therefore a major public health concern is how to promote physical activity. Once people have made the decision to be more physically active, how to help them stick with it is crucial,’’ he said.
‘’Increasing and maintaining physical activity long term is a complex process, so this issue is very relevant for our attempts to exercise and get fit.’’
The researchers will examine different types of goals that are currently used in exercise and physical activity, as well as trialling a promising new approach to goal setting that aims to make it easier for us to stay active.
They are seeking volunteers aged 18 and over to participate in a one-hour physical activity session (a walking task at your own pace) at UniActive on UOW’s Wollongong Campus. Participants will be provided with a $20 Espresso Warriors voucher as a thank-you for their time.
Those interested in taking part can contact Dr Christian Swann at cswann@uow.edu.au or 4221 4526.
‘’Many people would have made New Year’s resolutions to get fit. Hopefully through our findings we will help inform those next year on a different but more effective way to improve their fitness,’’ Dr Swann said.