This study investigated the relationship between exercise participation and volition. In particular, we tested whether volitional competencies predict gym attendance (predisposition model) or change in response to attendance (socialization model). A prospective longitudinal study was employed. Individuals (N 196) who had just signed up as a new gym member completed a pretest measurement of various self-regulation and self-control competencies and a follow-up 15 weeks later. Participants' gym attendance was registered electronically using a magnetic card. The analysis revealed that volitional competencies at the pretest were unrelated to gym attendance, but the gym attendance predicted positive changes in the self-control competence measured at the follow-up. Participants who more frequently attended the gym showed greater improvement in self-control. These findings support the socialization model rather than the predisposition model, indicating that exercise participation is less dependent on concrete volitional skills, but it may strengthen volitional competencies as a consequence. Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology     «

This study investigated the relationship between exercise participation and volition. In particular, we tested whether volitional competencies predict gym attendance (predisposition model) or change in response to attendance (socialization model). A prospective longitudinal study was employed. Individuals (N 196) who had just signed up as a new gym member completed a pretest measurement of various self-regulation and self-control competencies and a follow-up 15 weeks later. Participants' gym at...     »