Maintaining exercise in fitness centre settings: insights from the physical activity maintenance theory

ABSTRACT

Purpose

This study examines factors that influence long-term fitness centre participation, applying the Physical Activity Maintenance Theory to assess psychological and contextual influences on exercise adherence.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 regular fitness centre attendees in Taubaté, São Paulo, Brazil. Data were analysed using Bardin’s Content Analysis, exploring the participants’ experiences and the factors contributing to their sustained activity.

Results

Autonomous motivation, such as enjoyment and satisfaction from workouts, along with self-efficacy, emerged as crucial for continued fitness centre attendance. The environment, including ambiance, social support, and facility quality, significantly impacted exercise persistence. However, challenges like time constraints, weather conditions, and personal issues occasionally hindered engagement. The study also highlights the role of personalized fitness programmes in supporting long-term adherence, suggesting that tailoring these programmes to individual goals could further enhance commitment.

Conclusions

The findings underscore the importance of fitness centres creating environments that align with individual needs and preferences. Customized programmes that cater to both personal and communal needs could bolster long-term adherence. Future research should explore the impact of personalized, community-integrated fitness approaches on sustaining active lifestyles, emphasizing the importance of accommodating individual preferences in maintaining regular exercise habits.

Introduction

Regular physical activity is essential for enhancing individual well-being and life quality and preventing chronic diseases (Guedes et al., 2012; Pedersen & Saltin, 2015; Warburton & Bredin, 2017). Despite the known physical, psychological, and social benefits of being physically active, sustaining long-term physical activity remains a significant challenge, with many individuals reverting to sedentary behaviours or failing to maintain consistent levels of physical activity (Allen & Morey, 2010; Liz & Andrade, 2013; Piercy & Troiano, 2018; Weinberg & Gould, 2016). A recent survey by Oliveira et al. (2023) among 88,531 Brazilian adults found that 59.5% were physically inactive, 14.0% were insufficiently active, and only 26.4% were physically active according to the World Health Organization’s guidelines (Organization, 2020). Additionally, 30.1% of the population reported engaging in sedentary behaviour for six or more hours per day, and just 8.6% met the recommendations for muscle-strengthening activities.

To better understand the factors associated with the maintenance of physical activity, various theories and models have been proposed, including the Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991), Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 2004, 2008), and Self-Determination Theory (Ryan & Deci, 2002, 2017). However, due to the complex interplay of factors influencing physical activity maintenance, the Physical Activity Maintenance Theory (PAMT) has been developed by Nigg et al. (2008), further explored in recent studies (Ong et al., 2022; Yoon et al., 2023). This theory presents a comprehensive array of correlates and predictors, encompassing cognitive, behavioural, environmental, and motivational strategies, to elucidate the complexity of behavioural change. PAMT integrates concepts from other theories, such as goal-setting, self-efficacy, and self-motivation, emphasizing the active strategies individuals employ to maintain and regularize physical activity behaviour over time.

Self-efficacy plays a crucial role, influencing goal selection and persistence in behavioural objectives, even amidst challenges. Moreover, task-focused goal setting and self-motivation to pursue behavioural objectives, regardless of beliefs and reinforcement control, are key components of PAMT. The theory also acknowledges the impact of stress and environmental factors on goal setting and the enactment of behaviours necessary for physical activity maintenance. Social support can positively or negatively affect maintenance, contingent upon the context. By examining variables such as environment and stress, it is anticipated that the understanding of behaviours related to physical activity maintenance will be enhanced. PAMT serves a vital role in unravelling the predictors of behavioural maintenance and offers a comprehensive theoretical framework for examining this intricate phenomenon (Nigg et al., 2008). The elucidation of these factors remains unclear, particularly within the context of fitness centres, which are frequented by a significant segment of the Brazilian population seeking structured physical exercise.

Fitness centres hold the potential to facilitate behavioural change by providing physical activity services with professional guidance (C. M. D. Liz & Andrade, 2016; Saba, 2001). However, despite varied strategies to attract clientele, fitness centres face challenges in retaining satisfied and committed members over extended periods (Marcelino, 2003; Radel et al., 2017). Retaining members in the same fitness centre for prolonged durations is a managerial concern due to the lower cost and effort compared to attracting new clients (Pereira, 1996).

Given the importance of physical activity maintenance and the paucity of studies addressing the factors influencing this process, particularly in the fitness centres context, this study aimed to investigate whether the factors proposed by PAMT affect the maintenance of physical activity within a fitness centre setting. This research is justified by the significance of physical activity maintenance for health and quality of life, as well as the interest in understanding the factors impacting this process. The study contributes to the knowledge base on exercise maintenance, benefiting not just fitness centres but also health professionals and physical educators in promoting healthy behaviours and preventing chronic diseases related to physical inactivity.

Materials and methods

The study employed a cross-sectional design with a qualitative and descriptive analysis approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews to understand the phenomenon of Physical Activity Maintenance (PAM).

Sample

Participants were non-randomly and intentionally selected from a fitness centre in Taubaté, São Paulo state, Brazil, a location chosen for its integrated access control system. This methodological choice underscores the study’s focus on a unique context, providing rich insights into the specific factors that influence physical activity maintenance in this environment. By targeting active gym-goers within a defined setting, the research benefits from a depth of investigation that reveals the nuanced interplay of individual, social, and environmental determinants of exercise adherence. Such a focused approach allows for a detailed exploration of the contextual specificities that shape and sustain physical activity behaviours, offering valuable perspectives that can inform targeted interventions and strategies within similar settings. Individuals included were over 18 years old, active in the fitness centres for more than three months, and engaged in at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly, adhering to the American College of Sports Medicine (2013) and World Health Organization (2010) guidelines. The sample consisted of 17 individuals (♀ = 14; ♂ = 3) aged between 23 and 35 years. Exclusion criteria were: 1) interruption of physical activity for more than two weeks in the last three months; 2) fewer than 30 fitness centre visits; 3) injuries affecting fitness centre participation for more than a month; and 4) training with a personal trainer. These criteria were set considering that a two-week break significantly hinders habit maintenance, 30 visits indicate adherence of at least 2 or 3 times per week, injuries impact continuous engagement, and individuals training with personal trainers might have different motivations and experiences in the fitness centre environment. Access to the fitness centre was tracked through digital (biometric) readings, managed via the EVO integrated system during the study period.

Procedures

This study was submitted and approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of São Judas Tadeu University (CAAE: 99077418.1.0000.0089/Report number: 2.919.007), with all the ethical requirements in force in resolutions nº. 466/2012 and 510/16 of the National Research Ethics Commission of Brazil, and data collection began only after its approval. Initially, potential participants were screened through the fitness centre’s system to determine their eligibility according to the study’s criteria. Out of 28 eligible individuals, those who met the criteria were contacted via phone or email, where the study’s objectives were explained, and they were invited to participate. Seventeen of these individuals agreed to participate. Interviews were conducted on the fitness centre premises after obtaining the owners’ permission, clarifying research objectives, and obtaining signed Informed Consent Forms from the participants.

Before the interview, participants filled out a form with their personal details. Interviews lasted between 10 and 23 minutes. Responses were recorded using a Samsung Galaxy SII Lite smartphone, transferred to a computer, and transcribed verbatim into text documents. The data were then subjected to descriptive-exploratory analysis according to established research principles.

Instruments

Participants completed an initial form with personal identification details. Data related to profession, education level, monthly income, duration of physical activity practice, and total weekly physical activity time were collected. These data facilitated the description of the sample included.

The primary study data were gathered through individual semi-structured interviews based on the dimensions of the Physical Activity Maintenance Theory (PAMT), considering the variables that could elucidate the most used strategies throughout the health behaviour change process. To construct the interview guide, the original theory author was contacted to inquire about the application and evaluation methods of the dimensions, who then provided the original instrument created based on the theory. This instrument underwent a cross-cultural adaptation process, with discussions and validations by the original author regarding the adjustments and modifications proposed for the new version of the instrument in the foreign context, in this case, Brazil.

The interview script was developed after the steps, divided into sections. The first written part consisted of filling in the fitness centre data, interview date, duration, and personal (sociodemographic) information such as full name, age, educational level, ethnicity, and family monthly income. Following this, the first section was conducted through recorded open-ended questions, covering information on physical activity and its maintenance over an extended period, aiming to understand the physical activity scenario, types of activities, and duration of engagement at the fitness centre. The subsequent five sections were crafted according to the theory’s dimensions, adapted from the original questionnaire provided by the author.

Finally, after adapting the questionnaire and converting it into a semi-structured interview format, the interview guide comprised approximately 43 open-ended questions about the characterization of physical activity and the five dimensions of PAMT: 1) Characterization of practiced physical activities; 2) Establishment of Personal Goals and Objectives; 3) Personal Motivation; 4) Self-Efficacy; 5) Environmental Factors [physical and social]; and 6) Stress. A final section (7) was proposed to allow participants to make considerations about the factors influencing their maintenance of physical exercise practice.

Data analysis

The study employed Bardin’s Content Analysis (Bardin, 2011), which facilitated the categorization of data into five categories aligned with the dimensions of the Physical Activity Maintenance Theory (PAMT), as depicted in Figure 1.

Figure 1.

Analysis categories corresponding to the dimensions of the physical activity maintenance theory.

After the interview collection, the content was transcribed into a text file using Microsoft Word® by researcher LFST. The qualitative data analysis phase was conducted by researchers HMD and MCZ. For this purpose, NVivo 10^Ⓡ software, developed by QSR International, was utilized as a tool to facilitate the content analysis process, following the steps proposed by Bardin (2011) and Adu (2019). The first step involved a pre-analysis, material organization, and uploading to NVivo. The subsequent exploratory phase was conducted through preliminary analyses (floating reading) and examination of word frequencies and text searches to approximate the data. This was followed by the establishment of categories and data coding to develop the record units according to the dimensions proposed by PAMT. Finally, the last step involved interpreting and inferring the factors that contribute to individuals’ sustained engagement in physical activities.

Results

The sociodemographic data related to the physical activity practice of the interviewed participants are presented as mean and standard deviation and can be seen in Table I.

Table I.

Participant characteristics.

	Female (n = 14)	Male (n = 3)	Total (n = 17)
Age (years)	28.79 ± 4.42	29.33 ± 4.73	28.88 ± 4.33
Monthly Income (R$)	5107.14 ± 2512.88	4666.67 ± 1154.70	5029.41 ± 2308.07
Number of Visits	47.36 ± 15.65	49.00 ± 18.73	47.65 ± 15.60
Frequency (days/week)	4.71 ± 0.61	4.00 ± 1.00	4.59 ± 0.71
Weekly Physical Activity Time (minutes)	351.43 ± 121.58	360.00 ± 120.00	352.94 ± 117.57
Duration of Practice (months)	22.00 ± 13.49	20.67 ± 23.69	21.76 ± 14.78

Weekly Physical Activity Time (WPAT) in minutes per week.

Among the participants, 82.35% (n = 14) reported having completed higher education, and 88.23% (n = 15) identified as white. The declared monthly income for 94.11% (n = 16) of the participants ranged from R$ 3,000.00 to R$ 8,000.00, aligning with the middle-class stratification proposed by Kamakura and Mazzon (2016).

Regarding the weekly total of physical activity, 70.59% (n = 12) of the respondents stated they engaged in 300 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activities, in line with the World Health Organization guidelines (Bull et al., 2020). Satisfaction with weekly fitness centre attendance was reported by 76.47% (n = 13) of the respondents, most of whom trained five days a week, while 23.53% (n = 4) trained three to four times a week. Most of the respondents (82.35% [n = 14]) had been consistently practicing in the same fitness centre for at least one year. Participants were also queried about the types of fitness centre activities they engaged in. The coding of responses indicated that strength training was one of the most mentioned activities (32%), however, when considering all mentioned modalities, 53% pertained to group classes.

Interest in gymnastics classes and group activities was highlighted by the following statements:

S1: The gymnastics classes keep me coming back to this gym. It’s the quality of the classes.

S3: The gymnastics classes are lively, and they are what I like most.

S6: One of my favourite classes that keeps me here is Body Balance, which I really enjoy.

Motivation

Participants reported positive psychological states resulting from physical activity, such as improved mood and decreased stress levels. Motivation for practice was linked by the participants to the sensation of pleasure and the perception of good relationships, appreciation, and support among peers and instructors. Even among those who did not perceive themselves as motivated, achieving health, body composition, and aesthetic goals was a factor that promoted active behaviour.

S3: Yes, it affects my mood. I feel better about myself, more animated, less stressed, and more eager to exercise.

S11: Yes, it motivates me because I talk to the instructors and they remind me that I need to do this to improve (…) So, they are all motivating.

S6: I used to be more motivated; nowadays, I feel more tired and have to push myself to come. It’s hard to come here, but once I start training, I’m glad I did. I try to see it as a course I’m paying for and need to attend.

S9: Yes, I feel motivated because I like physical activity; it benefits me in many ways, like keeping calm, staying focused on my diet, and if I’m not coming to the gym, I lose that focus.

Generally, participants felt driven by involvement and the completion of challenges. However, those who did not identify with this behaviour attributed their discontinuation of activities to situations becoming too difficult, stressful, or disruptive to their routines. One participant exemplified this with a reference to an intense weightlifting routine (S8).

S17: Yes, I persist because I like to feel that I can overcome and it’s rewarding when I do. I keep going.

S8: I think so, I’ve given up on some things because I tend to avoid very difficult and stressful situations. For instance, in weightlifting, if the set looks too long, I won’t do it; I don’t know if I’m fooling myself (…) Completing that intense set with heavy weights would be stressful, so I don’t even start.

Some respondents did not identify any barriers to physical activity, social interaction, or discomfort during exercise. When barriers were noted, they were related to work, daily activities, injuries, or financial conditions. A few female participants expressed discomfort with fitness centre attire in the presence of male members.

S4: The only barrier for me is work when I don’t have time. Other than that, there are no issues.

S17: Sometimes, because of the men. Not all make me uncomfortable, but some do. I’ve had significant discomfort in the gym with a male member.

Goals

Interviewees recognized their commitment to maintaining physical activity, correlating it with their fitness centre attendance frequency. Primary goals were health-related, followed by body composition changes (fat reduction and hypertrophy), aesthetics, fitness, and sports performance. These goals generally remained consistent from the start of the training programme, with participants largely satisfied with their outcomes.

S15: Yes, because I have a commitment to come every day… it’s indeed an obligation. I treat it as a part of my day.

S17: To maintain good, stable health into old age, keep an aesthetically pleasing body, and uphold my mental health.

S11: Yes (I am satisfied) because I have been improving physically… in running, I push my muscles hard, so by strengthening here at the gym, I make them stronger.

Participants reported having met or were on track to meet their goals. Thus, they would continue their training programme even if their goals were not yet fully realized. Some were driven by the anticipation of achieving their goals, while others indicated a willingness to revise their strategies if needed. These insights underscore the motivation category’s findings, reflecting intent, engagement, and persistence towards attaining desired outcomes.

S5: I’ve achieved results very effectively and efficiently, and I’m quite happy because I’m able to maintain. It’s not just about achieving the result but maintaining it.

S8: I would continue (the exercise programme), because sometimes it takes longer to achieve certain goals, so patience and persistence are required.

S9: I would reflect on what prevented me from achieving. I gained weight because I wasn’t following a proper diet… I was very disappointed… Then I thought about doing it right, went to a nutritionist… if we don’t quickly achieve our goals, it can be demotivating, but I would continue because I like physical activity.

Stress

Participants noted increased stress levels when inactive, echoing the “Motivation” section’s consensus that physical activity reduces stress. Daily routines, particularly work and study, were identified as stress sources impacting physical activity maintenance. Spontaneous responses about other influencing issues revealed that time availability and management affect the regularity and willingness to engage in physical activity.

S12: If I don’t exercise, I become very stressed and much more irritable.

S16: Work can sometimes be a factor due to fatigue. Sometimes after work, I plan to go to the gym but don’t feel as willing. It does interfere.

S10: Despite having a package to attend other classes, I haven’t in six months because I can’t match my schedule to attend. Time is lacking.

Consensus varied regarding the impact of marital or family problems. Similar situations, like the loss of a family member or marital issues, had different effects on physical activity regularity. For some, exercise acted as an escape, positively influencing their ability to cope or detach from the situation. Conversely, others reported that such losses or problems led to stress or reluctance to engage in physical activity.

S13: No, on the contrary. When I lost my mother, I dedicated myself more to the gym, which significantly helped me cope.

S16: I lost my father and then didn’t go to the gym for two months. Sometimes I would go, but it wasn’t the same; I lacked the same dedication. I sought it sometimes to forget the situation.

Injury experiences or medically advised breaks led to adherence to rest periods, with participants resuming activity once cleared. Few reported pre-existing pain or injuries affecting their activity regularity. Lastly, financial issues were not cited as a significant barrier to gym participation by most interviewees.

S6: My knee hurts sometimes, so I slow down and take breaks, but I’ve never stopped for an extended period.

S8: I wouldn’t cut gym expenses… I see the gym as part of my health plan. I don’t mind paying for top health coverage because I value the gym and good nutrition. I wouldn’t cut back.

Self-efficacy

Participants expressed a strong intention to maintain physical activity over the long term, corroborating findings from previous categories on engagement and persistence. Factors supporting this behaviour included the psychophysiological benefits of exercise, identification with the activity, the facility, and social connections.

S11: Yes, I’ve made it a life goal, not just for my physical health but also for my mental well-being. It’s where I’ve found myself.

S2: Yes, I like to persist, and this gym is where I’ve stayed the longest… it’s about the target audience here that has greatly influenced me (to stop attending other gyms). I lacked that motivation elsewhere, which I find here.

S6: I enjoy training; it’s important… to be in good shape because I like hiking and walking with friends… So, I plan not to give up on the fitness centre, whether it’s running or always being active in some way.

However, consensus was lacking when participants were asked about maintaining physical activity despite adverse conditions (weather, work, commitments) or resuming exercise after medical advice to pause, indicating varied responses to similar situations. Time management and the intention to prioritize fitness centre attendance were important for those who felt capable of maintaining regular activity. In contrast, some participants mentioned that rain, cold, work, and unforeseen events could disrupt their regular attendance. Similar variances were observed in responses to injury or medical recommendations for breaks. While some indicated an immediate intention to return post-recovery, others found it challenging to regain their training routine.

S11: Always. Regardless of rain or sunshine, I go.

S8: Yes, I even swim in the cold, sometimes in an unheated pool… Time is relative; it’s about organizing and prioritizing certain things.

S6: No, I don’t go to the gym. Weather conditions like cold and rain… it depends. If I have an important commitment, I won’t go… I prioritize it over the gym, but not for trivial reasons.

S12: Yes, I’ve been sidelined due to an injury. I had a motorcycle accident in 2010 and took a two-month break. Once cleared by the doctor, I returned.

S9: No, I take time. With physical limitations, one tends to get accustomed to inactivity. I get comfortable and delay returning to the rhythm.

Physical activity environment

Participants reported cordial relationships with fitness centre staff and fellow members, with varied levels of closeness or isolated incidents of disagreements. Despite earlier categories highlighting social connection as a key factor for fitness centre attendance, most participants viewed their interactions with others as polite but not particularly close.

S12: It’s normal, just social. There are those we talk to more, like the swimming coach I’ve known the longest.

S5: Some members seem selective about who they associate with, excluding others. This happens more in the gymnastics area… Overall, it’s very good. There’s just the occasional person we don’t get along with, which is normal.

S10: I don’t have personal friendships here, but the relationship is very good, just social.

S16: I think it’s good. With some members, it’s just cordial… I avoid extensive conversations to not interrupt my training.

When asked about the negative aspects of the fitness centre, equipment wear, and maintenance were often cited as dislikes. The lack of support from weightlifting coaches was mentioned but wasn’t universally agreed upon. Participants positively noted the quality of classes and the supportive nature of the fitness centre staff, associating these human resources with social bonds, support, good service, charisma, and technical proficiency, which they found attractive and influential for their continued attendance.

S11: The weightlifting equipment… it’s very outdated. There are broken machines and worn-out weightlifting belts.

S2: Weightlifting, because I don’t find it motivating. There’s often no one pushing you, showing you what’s right or wrong… I don’t enjoy it. If you don’t like something, you need someone to motivate you… The equipment, especially in the weightlifting area, could be improved.

S3: The classes. I really enjoy the lively gymnastics classes.

S15: The people. I feel good interacting with everyone here.

S16: I like the atmosphere and the attention from the trainers. What stands out for me is the guidance we receive during our workouts.

S8: I really enjoy the swimming classes… The coach is very technical and helps refine my swimming technique.

While some participants suggested that distance might influence fitness centre attendance, others expressed a willingness to continue attending their current fitness centre even if they lived farther away. For these individuals, the connection to the fitness centre seemed more significant than proximity to work or home.

S15: Yes, because living nearby makes it much easier… I would probably look for something closer if I lived farther away.

S15: If I lived farther, I might look for a closer place. But since I know this fitness centre well, I think I would stay because I really like it here.

S3: It’s a bit far for me… but I still come. I’ve thought about switching to a closer branch but couldn’t bring myself to do it.

Discussion

The aim of this study was to identify factors influencing the maintenance of physical activity within a fitness centre context. The primary finding indicates that psychological and contextual aspects are crucial for sustaining physical activity engagement. Participants’ narratives highlighted that motivational regulation and self-efficacy are pivotal in promoting ongoing physical activity, as evidenced by the enjoyment experienced during exercise, achievement of goals, and recognition of physical activity benefits. Conversely, daily routine-related contextual factors, emerging adversities, fitness centre infrastructure, and provided human support can impact the continuity of physical activity.

Our findings provide nuanced insights into PAMT by illustrating how intrinsic motivation and self-efficacy, central to this theory, are manifested in the fitness centre context. Participants’ enjoyment and satisfaction derived from fitness centre activities, coupled with their commitment to health and fitness goals, exemplify the theory’s emphasis on personal motivation and goal-oriented behaviour as key drivers for maintaining physical activity.

Adherence and maintenance of physical activity could be facilitated by meeting basic psychological needs (Kang et al., 2020) and are explained by motivational regulation by 12% to 16% (Eynon et al., 2017). Motivational regulation is underscored by inherent pleasure and interest in the activity and is mediated by expectations, needs, and conveniences that can vary with opportunities (Ryan & Deci, 2017; Taylor et al., 2013). These findings are supported by Knittle et al. (2016), who demonstrated that the maintenance of physical activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis was mediated by higher levels of autonomous motivation and the use of self-regulation skills. This suggests that promoting autonomy and teaching self-regulation skills, such as goal setting and action planning, are crucial for long-term maintenance of physical activity.

While autonomous motivation refers to engaging in an activity for its inherent satisfaction, controlled motivation pertains to actions driven by expected outcomes (Ryan & Deci, 2000). This distinction between autonomous and controlled motivations is crucial for understanding the impact on physical activity adherence. One study (Knittle et al., 2016) indicated that autonomous motivation plays a significant role in maintaining physical activity among patients with rheumatoid arthritis, highlighting the importance of promoting an environment that fosters the internalization of motivations.

The Self-Determination Theory (SDT) by Deci and Ryan (1985), Ryan and Deci (2017), and Ryan (2023) provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how different forms of motivation, both autonomous and controlled, influence the maintenance of physical activity. SDT is underpinned by several microtheories, including the Cognitive Evaluation Theory (CET), which explores how external factors such as rewards, feedback, and social context can enhance or undermine autonomous motivation. According to CET, autonomous motivation is bolstered when individuals feel a sense of autonomy and competence in their activities, aligning with the enjoyment and satisfaction reported by participants in this study (Ryan & Deci, 2017).

Additionally, the Organismic Integration Theory (OIT), another microtheory within SDT, addresses the continuum of extrinsic motivation, ranging from external regulation to integrated regulation. OIT distinguishes between autonomous motivation, where behaviours are aligned with one’s own values and interests, and controlled motivation, where actions are driven by external pressures or obligations. In the context of this study, participants who initially engaged in physical activity for extrinsic reasons, such as health improvement or aesthetic goals, reported that over time, these behaviours became more autonomously motivated as they internalized these activities, integrating them into their self-concept and overall well-being. This shift from controlled to autonomous motivation suggests that even when motivation begins as extrinsic, the supportive environment of the fitness centre can facilitate a transition towards more self-determined forms of motivation, enhancing long-term adherence (Ryan, 2023; Ryan & Deci, 2000).

Central to SDT is the concept of Basic Psychological Needs Theory (BPNT), which posits that the satisfaction of three fundamental needs—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—is essential for fostering well-being and sustained motivation. The findings from this study underscore the importance of creating fitness centre environments that support these psychological needs, thereby enhancing both autonomous motivation and the internalization of controlled motivations. By aligning fitness programmes with these needs, fitness centres can promote long-term adherence and help individuals maintain their physical activity over time (Ryan & Deci, 2017 (Vansteenkiste et al., 2020, 2023).;

While CET, OIT, and BPNT are the primary microtheories driving the SDT framework, other theories, such as Causality Orientations Theory and Goal Contents Theory, also contribute to understanding how motivation is regulated and sustained in various contexts. However, the focus on CET, OIT, and BPNT provides the most direct insights into the dynamics of motivation within the fitness centre environment.

From this perspective, several interviewees reported enjoyment in physical activity and shared experiences of positive psychological states, such as improved mood and reduced stress levels. This perspective is reinforced by Van Stralen et al. (2009), who found a compelling positive association between the pleasure derived from physical activity and its maintenance, highlighting the importance of creating environments that promote satisfaction and well-being during exercise. The literature has amassed substantial evidence that regular physical activity offers a range of physiological and psychological benefits, aiming to mitigate stress-related disorders and prevent many chronic diseases (Bauman et al., 2012; Deuster & Silverman, 2013; Hinkle, 2015; Kohl et al., 2012; Ramos-Sanchez et al., 2021; Wen & Wu, 2012). However, despite social relationships emerging as a motivating aspect and a dominant factor for physical activity maintenance in fitness centre settings (Ryan & Deci, 2017; Santos & Knijnik, 2006), consensus among participants on the enjoyment of significant bonds was lacking, with most expressing merely cordial relationships with fellow fitness centre members. Some affinity is reported between members and fitness centre staff (instructors and employees), but mainly in relation to the technical support provided.

For those not autonomous motivated, achieving goals (health, body composition, aesthetics, and fitness) was seen as influential in sustaining active behaviour. A study has shown that self-efficacy, the belief in one’s ability to achieve desired outcomes, is a critical factor for adherence and maintenance of physical activity. This concept was emphasized in an intervention that demonstrated that goal setting and positive feedback significantly increase self-efficacy and, consequently, exercise adherence (Knittle et al., 2016). Thus, for many respondents, engagement and continuity in physical activity could be attributed to extrinsic factors related to goal fulfilment or the anticipation of desired outcomes. Indeed, goal setting and individual involvement in their achievement are considered motivational factors, as clear goal setting fosters focus, commitment, and adherence to an active lifestyle (Eynon et al., 2017; Weinberg & Gould, 2016). Besides health-related objectives commonly pursued in regular physical activity (Balbinotti & Capozzoli, 2008; Manzano & Molina, 2012) mentioned by participants, this study also highlights the importance of aesthetic, body composition, and fitness outcomes, with aesthetic factors possibly playing a more significant role in promoting active behaviour, especially among younger individuals (Baldo, 2015; Huberty et al., 2008; Tahara et al., 2003; Zanetti et al., 2007).

Consequently, a degree of self-efficacy and self-confidence is evident, as most participants have met or are in the process of achieving their goals. Even if these goals are not fully realized, respondents express an intention to continue their training programme. In some cases, this commitment is anchored in the expectation that desired results will eventually be attained; in others, reports indicate a willingness to adjust strategies if goals are not achieved as planned.

Self-efficacy emerges as a determinant of health-related behaviours, including physical activity, encompassing the individual belief in successfully executing specific actions (McAuley et al., 2011). In the physical activity context, self-efficacy can be described as the ability to persist in exercise, even when faced with obstacles (Barros & Iaochite, 2012), making an individual’s confidence level crucial for sustaining long-term physical activity (Crain et al., 2010; Telles et al., 2016; Williams et al., 2008). However, even in populations with chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, self-efficacy and autonomous motivation can be promoted to help bridge this gap between intention and behaviour. Interventions combining motivational interviewing and self-regulation coaching have proven effective in maintaining long-term physical activity (Knittle et al., 2016). Additionally, Amireault et al. (2013) emphasizes that higher levels of self-efficacy, coupled with satisfaction with the outcomes of physical activity, significantly contribute to the long-term maintenance of physical activity, helping individuals overcome barriers and avoid relapse. Despite obstacles, self-efficacy reinforces the intent to exercise and can effectively regulate behaviour (Rhodes et al., 2008), addressing the known “intention-behavior gap” identified by Carneiro and Gomes (2016), Rhodes and Yao (2015), and Rhodes et al. (2021).

Despite identifying self-efficacy for goal achievement, consensus was lacking among participants regarding the willingness to resume physical activity after a pause or to continue amidst stressful and adverse conditions. Reports identified barriers to physical activity associated with time availability due to work/studies/daily activities, weather, family issues, or injuries. These barriers are consistent with findings from other studies indicating that such aspects increase the likelihood of discontinuation (Bossi et al., 2008; Liz & Andrade, 2016; Rezaee & Mazaheri, 2017; Telles et al., 2016).

Furthermore, research (Hurley et al., 2018; Knittle et al., 2018) highlights that the interaction between stressors and motivational regulation can negatively affect the continuation of physical activity. Individuals with behaviours influenced by external contingencies or impersonality tend to perceive higher stress or face difficulties when dealing with challenging, stressful, or routine-disrupting circumstances (Holden et al., 2019; Park et al., 2012), which in turn, can impact physical activity maintenance (Arey et al., 2022). This effect is further supported by Van Stralen et al. (2009), who emphasize the importance of environmental influences, such as neighbourhood safety perception, in maintaining physical activity, especially in older populations. These extrinsic factors, when aligned with intrinsic motivations, can strengthen the continuity of exercise in various contexts. Accordingly, reports suggest that while the absence of physical activity leads to higher stress perception, adverse or stressful events tend to become barriers to maintaining physical activity.

While proximity to residence/work/school (less than three kilometres) initially emerges as a significant factor in gym selection (Checa et al., 2006; Rojas, 2003; Telles et al., 2016), equipment quality and infrastructure impact the maintenance of physical activity (Liz & Andrade, 2016). However, despite being mentioned as unfavourable aspects, distance and equipment wear do not constitute barriers to continued practice, suggesting that the established connection with the fitness centre is more significant than these issues. Thus, participants express a willingness to overcome greater distances to maintain their fitness centre attendance. Research highlights that strategies like self-monitoring and regular follow-up reminders are particularly effective in sustaining physical activity over time, especially in community or workplace environments. This suggests that fitness centres could enhance long-term adherence by incorporating systematic follow-up and self-monitoring practices into their programmes (Murray et al., 2017).

The critical narrative review by Rhodes and Sui (2021) accentuates the dynamic nature of physical activity maintenance, illuminating the evolving intrinsic and environmental factors crucial for sustained activity in gym settings. This dynamic process extends beyond initial behaviour change, incorporating habit formation and identity integration, thus urging the PAMT to foster gym environments conducive to not only initiating but also perpetuating physical activity. Such an approach underscores a holistic strategy for promoting enduring health and fitness.

Building on this, the research by Jekauc et al. (2015) further deepens our understanding of PAMT within the fitness centre context, revealing the strong predictive capability of the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) for sustaining physical activity. The pivotal roles of self-efficacy and social support emerge as key components, resonating with the necessity of addressing both internal motivations and external barriers to enhance fitness centre adherence. The emphasis on life stress and obstacles as significant determinants of attendance behaviour underpins the call for tailored intervention methods, aimed at accommodating the varied experiences of fitness centre-goers, thereby enriching the practical application of PAMT in real-world fitness centre settings.

Additionally, the study by Ong et al. (2022) integrates PAMT and SCT to analyse gym attendance during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting how external elements like pandemic comprehension and life stress influence behavioural intentions and the continuity of physical activity. The findings indicate that while self-motivation and knowledge of COVID-19 bolster physical activity maintenance, life stress adversely affects it. This interplay between external stressors and individual psychological factors offers insightful guidance for crafting fitness centre environments and programmes that facilitate ongoing physical activity engagement, especially in challenging circumstances, thus advocating for a nuanced approach to supporting long-term exercise adherence in fitness centre environments.

This study extends the PAMT framework by empirically validating its constructs in a fitness centre setting, thus broadening the theory’s applicability. By exploring the interplay between individual psychological drivers and environmental factors, our research elucidates the multifaceted nature of exercise maintenance, thereby offering a deeper understanding of PAMT’s relevance in structured exercise environments.

Our study deepens the understanding of PAMT by exploring its dynamics in a fitness centre setting in Taubaté, São Paulo, Brazil, highlighting how cultural and geographical nuances influence physical activity maintenance. This detailed examination within the Brazilian context not only validates PAMT’s constructs but also uncovers the specificities of maintaining physical activity in a distinct socio-cultural environment. Consequently, our research underscores the necessity of contextual adaptations in PAMT, urging future studies to delve into the cultural and environmental contingencies that shape physical activity behaviours globally.

Limitations

However, the conclusions drawn from this research must be contextualized within its limitations. One key limitation of this study is the gender imbalance among participants, with a greater number of female participants than male (14 women and 3 men). This discrepancy suggests the need for future research to ensure a more balanced gender representation, which would allow for a more nuanced understanding of how different factors influence fitness centre adherence across genders.

Furthermore, the study’s setting in a single fitness centres located in Taubaté, São Paulo, Brazil, introduces specific cultural and geographic influences that may not be universally applicable. To enhance the generalizability of the findings, future research should aim to replicate the study across diverse cultural and geographic contexts, exploring potential variances in fitness centre adherence drivers.

Additionally, to obtain a more comprehensive view of the factors influencing fitness centre adherence, future studies should consider a broader range of demographic variables, including age, socioeconomic status, and fitness levels. Expanding the demographic scope in future research would provide a more detailed picture of the motivations and barriers faced by different population segments.

Another limitation of this study is the reliance on self-reported data, which may be subject to biases such as social desirability or recall bias. Participants might have provided responses that reflect what they believe is expected rather than their true behaviours and attitudes. Future studies could incorporate objective measures of physical activity and adherence to validate self-reported data.

Finally, the cross-sectional nature of the study limits our ability to establish causality between the identified factors and fitness centre adherence. Longitudinal studies are needed to track changes in motivation, behaviour, and adherence over time, providing a clearer understanding of how these factors interact dynamically. Additionally, conducting this study in a single fitness centre may have influenced the results due to unique characteristics of that setting. Future research should include multiple fitness centres with varying environments and amenities to assess whether the findings are consistent across different settings.

Practical implications

The findings of this study present several practical implications for fitness centre managers, trainers, and health policymakers. First, the role of autonomous motivation and self-efficacy in maintaining physical activity highlights the importance of creating a motivational climate that supports autonomy, competence, and relatedness within fitness centres. To achieve this, fitness centres should consider implementing personalized fitness programmes that are not only tailored to individual goals but also designed to be enjoyable and satisfying, as this has been shown to enhance long-term adherence.

Moreover, the study emphasizes the significance of social support and the quality of the fitness centre environment. Managers should prioritize the development of supportive social networks among fitness centres members and between members and staff. This can be facilitated through group activities, personalized coaching, and community-building events, which have the potential to increase social bonds and, consequently, adherence to regular physical activity.

Given the findings related to barriers such as time constraints, weather conditions, and personal issues, fitness centres might benefit from offering more flexible scheduling options, including virtual classes or on-demand workouts. This flexibility could help mitigate the impact of external factors that occasionally hinder fitness centres attendance.

In addition, fitness centres should consider the potential impact of stress and life disruptions on physical activity maintenance. Offering stress management resources, such as mindfulness workshops or relaxation areas, could help members manage stress more effectively, thereby supporting their continued participation in physical activities.

Finally, the study suggests that fitness centres should regularly evaluate and upgrade their facilities and equipment to ensure they meet the needs and expectations of their members. High-quality, well-maintained equipment and a pleasant environment can significantly enhance the overall exercise experience, further promoting long-term adherence.

By implementing these strategies, fitness centres can better support their members in maintaining regular physical activity, ultimately contributing to improved public health outcomes.

Future directions

Future research should consider the dynamic nature of external factors, such as economic conditions and technological advancements, which may significantly impact the maintenance of physical activity in fitness centre settings. Adopting a longitudinal approach and employing a mixed-methods research design is recommended to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how these factors influence long-term adherence to physical activity. Such an approach would allow for a deeper exploration of the complexities involved in sustaining participation in fitness centres and facilitate the development of targeted strategies aimed at promoting sustained physical activity. By addressing these areas, future studies can contribute to more effective interventions and policies that support long-term health and well-being through regular physical activity.

Building on this, future research should consider developing a classification system of intervention techniques within the framework of the Physical Activity Maintenance Theory (PAMT), which encompasses a broad range of constructs, including goal-setting, stress management, self-efficacy, and environmental factors, in addition to motivation. Creating such a system would enable researchers to systematically test the effectiveness of various interventions aimed at promoting long-term adherence to physical activity. For instance, the classification systems proposed by Ahmadi et al. (2023) and Teixeira et al. (2020) have focused on enhancing motivation through the satisfaction of basic psychological needs, such as autonomy, competence, and relatedness. These models, applied in educational and health contexts, could serve as a valuable foundation for developing and testing similar systems within fitness centre settings. Future studies should explore the applicability of these classification systems across diverse populations and cultural contexts to validate and refine strategies that support sustained physical activity, thereby enhancing the practical utility of PAMT in real-world environments.

Conclusions

The findings of this study highlight the complex interplay between psychological drivers, such as intrinsic motivation and self-efficacy, and contextual factors, like fitness centre facility quality and social support, in maintaining physical activity within fitness centre environments. Participants’ experiences emphasize the critical role of personal fulfilment and goal achievement in sustaining fitness centre adherence, suggesting that programmes should be both enjoyable and tailored to individual preferences and goals.

Moreover, the insights gained underscore the importance of creating motivational climates within fitness centres that cater to these individual preferences while providing robust social support. This approach aligns with the Physical Activity Maintenance Theory (PAMT), which emphasizes the significance of environmental and social factors in the long-term maintenance of physical activity.

In summary, this study contributes to our understanding of how psychological and contextual factors interact to support sustained physical activity within fitness centres. By tailoring fitness programmes to meet individual needs and fostering supportive environments, fitness centres can play a crucial role in promoting long-term adherence to physical activity, ultimately enhancing public health outcomes.

Biographies

Luiz Fernando Santos Tross was central to the research project, conducting the data collection process and playing a crucial role in the analysis and development phases. His direct involvement ensured the accuracy and methodological integrity of the data collection, aligning it with the study’s objectives. Tross’s contribution to the analytical and writing stages of the paper was characterized by a technical and academic approach, integrating his expertise in Physical Education, Exercise Physiology, and Strategic Business Management. This integration provided a comprehensive and scholarly perspective to the research, enhancing its scientific rigour and relevance in the related fields.

Helton Magalhães Dias, possessing advanced qualifications in Physical Education and a specialization in Sports Training, played a pivotal role in the analytical aspect of the research. His expertise was crucial in the data interpretation and analysis, ensuring that the empirical findings were rigorously examined and aligned with the research objectives. Dias’s academic insight contributed significantly to the theoretical underpinnings of the study, establishing a solid framework that anchored the empirical data. His scholarly work in sports training and motivational studies provided a nuanced perspective that enriched the research, integrating theory with practice to enhance the study’s contribution to the academic discourse in Physical Education and Sports Training.

Marcelo Callegari Zanetti, with a solid academic foundation in Physical Education and Human Motor Sciences, was the principal supervisor of the research process. His oversight was critical in guiding the project from its inception through data collection and analysis phases. Zanetti’s involvement extended to the methodological and analytical dimensions of the work, ensuring rigorous academic standards were met. His contributions to the manuscript’s development were marked by a critical, academic approach, aligning the study with established theoretical frameworks and empirical research in Physical Education.

Funding Statement

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

Data relating to the transcription and analysis of interviews obtained with study participants were deposited on 4TU.ResearchData Dataset. It can be accessed through the links: doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.25586697 or https://figshare.com/articles/dataset/Participant_interview_data/25586697