Physical Activity As Health-protective Behavior In Middle Aged Adult (36-60 Y)

In any preventive health care program for middle aged adults and elderly, the promotion of physical fitness activities has become an item of priority. However, the increased awaerenss of the importance of being physically fit is in contrast with the limited number of adults actually involved in physical fitness activities. This study focuses on the reasons for inactivity as well as on the perceived motivation to adhere to a fitness program. The health motive was found, as expected, to be the most important motive to start a physical fitness program. Even most of the non- active adults believe that for health reasons they should exrcise regulary. Reasons for inactivity include fatigue and lack of energy, lack of time (other things are more important and enjoyable), inadequate facilities, experiencing no health difficulties which would indicate the need for exercise, the implications for their lifestyle and fear of potential health hazards associated with physical fitness activities. Adherrece to habituel physical activity has been motivated by social support and socializing opprtunities and the experiences of relaxation, recreation and relief of tension. The discrepancy between knowing about health and fitness and really participating on a fitness program has been intrpreted in terms of cognitive processes, behavior modification and changing health life- style.