There is no doubt about the benefits of exercise.

Physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic diseases and conditions.

Despite the wealth of information about the benefits of exercise, sedentary adults often find it hard to  change their behaviour in a sustainable manner.

The development of interventions that support behaviour change is therefore of general interest.

Social cognitive theory, which explains why people behave as they do, can be used to develop strategies that support changes in behaviour.

Examples of such  strategies include encouraging people to choose from several options, goal setting, and encouraging clients to monitor their progress through record keeping.