Perceived Importance of Moderate‐to‐Vigorous Physical Activity as a Weight Control Strategy in Behavioral Weight Loss

Previous research has established the importance of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) for weight control. One area unexplored investigation is relationship between individuals’ perceptions MVPA control and engagement. This study examined associations perceived engagement, loss, barriers to PA, exercise enjoyment in adults enrolled a long-term behavioral loss intervention. Adults (N = 301) with overweight/obesity (BMI 27-45 kg/m2) completed an 18-month BWL intervention, followed by no-intervention follow-up. At baseline, 6 months, 18 months (i.e., post-treatment), 36 follow-up), participants ranked six strategies control: keeping food record, MVPA, light self-weighing, small portions, low-calorie diet. Observed (measured accelerometer), percent were also measured at each assessment. Results showed that most as primary strategy (first, second, or third important) throughout regardless goal (weight vs. maintenance). Individuals who concurrent time points, compared those did not, engaged significantly more post-treatment, had greater follow-up, endorsed fewer PA post-treatment reported baseline post-treatment. Therefore, was related subjective experiences adherence, article protected copyright. All rights reserved.