Self-determination theory mechanisms in men’s long-term, objectively measured physical activity and sedentary behaviour in the European Fans in Training (EuroFIT) program

Citation

Pereira HV, Silva MN, Pulido JJ, Roberts GC, Sorensen M, Andersen E, Roynesdal O, Wyke S, Gray CM, Hunt K, van Nassau F, van der Ploeg HP, Jelsma JGM & Teixeira PJ (2025) Self-determination theory mechanisms in men’s long-term, objectively measured physical activity and sedentary behaviour in the European Fans in Training (EuroFIT) program. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 22 (8), pp. 979-988. https://doi.org/10.1123/jpah.2024-0758

Abstract
Background: Evidence supporting Self-Determination Theory (SDT) utility in facilitating and explaining physical activity (PA) behavior change and maintenance is robust and rapidly increasing. This paper aims to describe how SDT was used to develop the European Fans in Training program, and its adequacy, concerning the critical mechanisms theoretically provided, to predict objectively measured PA and sedentary behaviors. Methods: European Fans in Training was a gender-sensitized, healthy lifestyle program that successfully attracted men and supported them in making changes in their PA and diet. This study analyzes self-reported psychometric and objectively measured PA data from the European Fans in Training intervention group of 560 overweight men aged 30–65 from 4 countries (The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, and the United Kingdom). Results: The motivational mediation sequence predicted by SDT showed an acceptable to excellent fit for the data: χ2 = 200.204; df = 87; P = .000; comparative fit index = .956; Tucker–Lewis Index = .933; root mean square error approximation = .050 (90% CI, .041 to .059); standardized root mean square residual = .056. Perceived need support by coaches was positively related to greater need satisfaction, which led to higher levels of self-determination and an increase in steps, lifestyle PA, and sit-to-stand transitions. Perceived need-thwarting behaviors were negatively associated with need satisfaction and indirectly with self-determination. Conclusions: Results confirm that interventions can create conditions for individuals to experience psychological need satisfaction, self-determined motivation, and PA-related health behavior change. These findings provide further support to the utility and acceptability of SDT among policymakers and practitioners wishing to promote PA in previously sedentary adults.

Keywords
motivation; intervention; sitting/standing; overweight; health promotion