Ample epidemiological evidence has well established a robust association between regular physical activity and health-related outcomes. However, engagement of sufficient physical activity remains a major challenge at the population level. This Research Topic aims to focus on the application of behavioral theories in the context of evidence-based practice of physical activity promotion.
However, as noted by Green in 2000, theory should not be viewed as a reductionist position. Instead, it is compatible with both holism and empowerment, which is critical to health behavior promotion. Essentially, the sheer collection of empirical evidence is not meaningful without the presence of a logical presentation of general principles. Certainly, with the guidance of theoretical principles, empirical evidence derived from real-world practice can better guide the efforts in promoting physical activity.
We posit that a substantial body of studies aiming to apply behavioral theories in physical activity promotion has been predominantly conducted in a supervised, lab-based setting, which is rigorously controlled. However, the generalizability of such findings awaits confirmation with more robust evidence from real-world applications.
Essentially, the collection of papers in this Research Topic will have a focus on the explanatory and predictive power of behavior theories in evidence-based research to promote physical activity and/or reduce physical inactivity. The purpose of theories, in the context of this article collection, is not to provide a general explanation to physical activity behaviors, but rather to help researchers and practitioners understand how to apply theories in natural settings, which may be complex but informative and practical. This may include, but not limited to, empirical studies, reviews, and meta-analyses examining the feasibility of behavioral theories in an effort to explain, predict, and increase physical activity. In essence, this special issue will be dedicated to gathering sufficient evidence to guide the real-world practice of theories of physical activity promotion.
***Due to the exceptional nature of the COVID-19 situation, Frontiers is waiving all article publishing charges for COVID-19 related research, however, manuscripts must be submitted prior to July 31st 2020 to be eligible for the waiver.***
Ample epidemiological evidence has well established a robust association between regular physical activity and health-related outcomes. However, engagement of sufficient physical activity remains a major challenge at the population level. This Research Topic aims to focus on the application of behavioral theories in the context of evidence-based practice of physical activity promotion.
However, as noted by Green in 2000, theory should not be viewed as a reductionist position. Instead, it is compatible with both holism and empowerment, which is critical to health behavior promotion. Essentially, the sheer collection of empirical evidence is not meaningful without the presence of a logical presentation of general principles. Certainly, with the guidance of theoretical principles, empirical evidence derived from real-world practice can better guide the efforts in promoting physical activity.
We posit that a substantial body of studies aiming to apply behavioral theories in physical activity promotion has been predominantly conducted in a supervised, lab-based setting, which is rigorously controlled. However, the generalizability of such findings awaits confirmation with more robust evidence from real-world applications.
Essentially, the collection of papers in this Research Topic will have a focus on the explanatory and predictive power of behavior theories in evidence-based research to promote physical activity and/or reduce physical inactivity. The purpose of theories, in the context of this article collection, is not to provide a general explanation to physical activity behaviors, but rather to help researchers and practitioners understand how to apply theories in natural settings, which may be complex but informative and practical. This may include, but not limited to, empirical studies, reviews, and meta-analyses examining the feasibility of behavioral theories in an effort to explain, predict, and increase physical activity. In essence, this special issue will be dedicated to gathering sufficient evidence to guide the real-world practice of theories of physical activity promotion.
***Due to the exceptional nature of the COVID-19 situation, Frontiers is waiving all article publishing charges for COVID-19 related research, however, manuscripts must be submitted prior to July 31st 2020 to be eligible for the waiver.***
