Self-control strategies with high levels of perceived stress and exercise-related barriers: An explanation for the sport activities of police officers

The resources of human executive functions are limited, which is why unlimited self-control energy cannot be invested. From a sport and exercise psychology perspective, chronic stress might reduce individuals' capacity to maintain their cognitive control over their exercise behaviour. Drawing on the Strength Model of Self-Control, the present study examined whether the frequent use of spontaneous self-control strategies is associated with higher exercise participation among participants who perceive high levels of stress and encounter many exercise-related behavior barriers. The sample consisted of 300 police officers (30% women, M = 41.8 years). The findings show that implementation intentions and coping planning are associated with an increased level of exercise. However, this relationship is independent of participants' level of perceived stress and behavior barriers. The findings support the notion that self-control strategies such as formulating specific action plans and anticipating strategies to cope with possible behavior obstacles increases the likelihood that individuals enact their behavior goals.