Factors Affecting Physical Activity Behavior Among Women in Kerman Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB)

Background: Theory of planned behavior (TPB) has not been adequately addressed in the field of physical activity among Iranian women. Objectives: This study aimed to determine factors affecting physical activity behavior among women based on the theory of planned behavior. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 398 women in Kerman, Iran. The women were selected through the multi-stage random sampling method. Data were collected using the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ) and a researcher-made questionnaire based on the constructs of the theory of planned behavior and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results: The mean age (SD) of participants was 36.9 (9.9). Perceived behavioral control (beta = 0. 16, P = 0. 013) and behavioral intention (beta = 0.16, P = 0.005) had a significant positive direct effect on physical activity behavior. Moreover, instrumental attitude (beta = 0.04, P = 0.003), subjective norms(beta = 0.04, P = 0.003) and perceived behavioral control (beta = 0.03, P = 0.002) had a significant positive indirect effect on physical activity behavior. Behavioral intention and perceived behavioral control constructs predicted 6% of variance of physical activity behavior. Conclusions: Given that the constructs of behavioral intention and perceived behavioral control could predict physical activity behavior, health promotion interventions should be designed with an emphasis on these factors in order to promote physical activity in women.