Self-enactable habit-promoting techniques for physical activity: A qualitative study

There is a dearth of empirical research on techniques that effectively promote physical activity habits. This qualitative study addresses this knowledge gap by identifing the self-enactable techniques that people with varying levels of habit strength and physical activity experience use to support their own physical activity behavior and form or maintain habits. Novice (n = 8), intermediate (n = 8), or expert (n = 8) exercisers (based on self-reported habit strength) were recruited via purposive sampling to partake in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were analyzed with deductive content analysis and inductive thematic analysis. A total of 96 self-enactable techniques were identified and 45 were considered as frequently reported in at least one of the experience groups. Techniques were further grouped to information seeking, support, acceptance and overcoming initiation inertia, restructuring the environment, and personal growth. Two themes emerged: 1) using different techniques, 2) using techniques differently. Current findings indicate that people with different levels of experience and reported habit strength toward physical activity may require different approaches from physical activity habit interventions, which requires tailoring. Within-persons longitudinal studies using validated measures of technique use are needed to improve scientific understanding of habit formation processes.