Motivation for exercise: Exploring the preference for group versus solo physical activity in extraverts

Abstract

It is well-known that routine physical activity has positive impacts on overall health and well being. However, the majority of Americans do not make exercise a priority in their daily lives. In order to better understand the motivation behind physical activity, the influence of Self Determination Theory (SDT) and Big Five personality traits on a preference for group versus individual exercise modes was analyzed. It was hypothesized that those who scored higher in extraversion would be more likely to engage in group exercise, while those who scored higher in introversion would prefer individual exercise regimens. A five-part survey was administered through both Amazon Mechanical Turk and WSU SONA. It included a demographics section, exercise mode and frequency component, Ten-Item Personality Inventory (TIPI), Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-3), and Exercise Motivation Inventory (EMI-2). A t-test indicated that there was not a significant difference (p = 0.97) in extraversion levels between individuals who preferred group versus solo exercise (Solo Mean = 4.95, SD = 1.04; Group Mean = 5.46, SD = 0.92; Total Mean = 5.24, SD = 1.00). These results will be used to inform future research aimed at better understanding motivational factors for exercise. This study, along with future research, will guide the design of physical activity engagement campaigns, tailored to individual populations, that emphasize the enjoyable aspects of exercise.