Self-regulation and self-control in exercise: the strength-energy model.

Hagger, Martin S.; Wood, Chantelle W.; Stiff, Chris; Chatzisarantis, Nikos L. D.

Self-regulation is an important component of psychosocial theories of exercise behaviour and lack of self-regulatory skills are associated with low adherence to health-related exercise. This review presents a strength-energy model of self-control as an explanation of self-regulation in exercise contexts. The review will provide impetus for original research aimed at understanding exercise behaviour and help develop recommendations for exercise promotion. In the model, self-control is conceptualized as a global but limited resource. Engaging in actions requiring self-control depletes resources leading to self-regulatory failure. Self-control resource depletion is reduced through rest and frequent training on self-control. The expectation of the need to exert self-control in future leads to a conservation of self-control resources. Proposed mechanisms for self-control resource depletion include changes in physiological markers and blood glucose levels. Based on our review, we propose an integrated model of self-regulation incorporating hypotheses from the strength-energy model with those from traditional psychosocial models of exercise behaviour. Recommendations for future research include incorporating hypotheses from the strength-energy model into theories of self-presentation and interpersonal relations in exercise. Practical recommendations aimed at minimising self-control depletion in exercise include the provision of advice on nutrition and recovery, self-control training, and motivational and implementation intention strategies.

SELF-control; SELF-management (Psychology); PSYCHOSOCIAL development theory; EXERCISE & psychology; HEALTH behavior; PHYSICAL activity

International Review of Sport & Exercise Psychology, 2010, Vol 3, Issue 1, p62

1750-984X

Academic Journal

10.1080/17509840903322815