The Transtheoretical Model and Exercise Behaviour of Members in Fitness Clubs

Introduction: The transtheoretical model of behaviour change (TTM) is often used to understand changes in health related behaviour, like exercise. The applicability of this model to exercise behaviour of the 140 million members in fitness clubs worldwide has never been systematically reviewed. The purpose of this paper is to review current TTM studies on exercise behaviour of this specific population. Methods: A systematic literature review was performed using three kinds of databases. In total 285 studies were found. On these studies, specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. The methodological quality of the studies was reviewed by using the CASP checklist. Results: Applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria yielded 33 studies on exercise behaviour of members in fitness clubs. Only 8 studies were based on one or more constructs of the TTM. The reviewed research demonstrate promising results. In multiple studies exercise behaviour was significantly increased by factors related to self-efficacy, decisional balance and processes of change. The overall quantity of studies is low and the overall quality is limited; for example randomised controlled trails are lacking. Conclusion: It is evident that research on exercise behaviour of members in fitness clubs using constructs of the TTM is limited. Future research should lead to the development of tailor made strategies and programs to improve exercise behaviour to promote long term health and fitness levels of members in fitness clubs.