Exercise Promotion in Physical Education: Application of the Transtheoretical Model

Student display of regular physical activity has been presented as a principal component of the definition of a physically educated student (National Association for Sport and Physical Education, 1991). What strategies can a physical educator employ to facilitate the adoption and maintenance of physical activity? The transtheoretical model offers an explanation of the structure of change that occurs when adults attempt to change behavior. Although the model was derived from the modification of addictive and problem behaviors, the transtheoretical model shows promise for providing a theoretical foundation for the acquisition of positive behaviors such as physical activity. This paper explains the basic constructs of the transthwretical model and discusses application of strategies that a physical educator in postsecondary and community settings may employ to facilitate the adoption and maintenance of physical activity.