Improving exercise behavior: An application of the stages of change model in a worksite setting

One of the most recent models used to study physical activity is the transtheoretical model of behavior change,(1) which suggests that individuals attempting to change health behavior move through five stages of change.(2) In the transtheoretical model, individuals experience different cognitive and behavioral processes of change as they move from one stage to another. Successful change depends on engaging the right process at the right stage.(3) According to this theory tailoring interventions to match a person's readiness (or stage of change) is essential.(4) The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a stage-based exercise intervention in a randomized trial of adults working in a corporate setting. Evaluations were measured by changes in physical activity and stage of change.