Why do women exercise? Factor analysis and further validation of the Reasons for Exercise Inventory

Percept Mot Skills. 1994 Apr;78(2):539-44. doi: 10.2466/pms.1994.78.2.539.

Abstract

This investigation examined the factor structure and correlates of the Reasons for Exercise Inventory among 101 exercising women. Subjects completed the 24-item inventory (with one added item), reported their weekly frequency of exercise, and completed two standardized body-image measures. Factor analysis indicated that, with minor modifications, the instrument has an internally consistent structure with four factors of Appearance/Weight Management, Fitness/Health Management, Stress/Mood Management, and Socializing. Appearance/Weight Management was associated with a more negative body image independent of actual body mass and was the only motive related to self-reported frequency of exercise.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Affect
  • Attitude*
  • Body Constitution
  • Body Image
  • Exercise / psychology*
  • Female
  • Gender Identity*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Motivation*
  • Personality Inventory / statistics & numerical data*
  • Physical Endurance
  • Physical Fitness / psychology
  • Psychometrics
  • Reference Values
  • Reproducibility of Results