Understanding the perceptions of sedentary college students' engagement in physical activity: application of the theory of planned behavior

Objective To understand salient beliefs related to physical activity (PA) in sedentary college students. Participants Thirty-seven students from a large research university participating in a larger research project were subsequently invited to participate in small focus groups. Methods Using the Theory of Planned Behavior as a framework, semi-structured focus groups were conducted to understand the perceptions of using mobile technology as a tool to increase PA. Results A grounded theory approach revealed that students generally had positive attitudes about PA and relied heavily on social support as a facilitator of PA behavior change. The structured exercise program delivered via the mobile app increased perceived behavioral control. Other key findings include academic barriers, desire to avoid chronic disease, and inconsistent efficacy of the mobile application among this population. Conclusions Interventions designed to increase PA in this population should focus on structured activity, increased self-monitoring, positive outcome expectancies, and social support.