The transtheoretical mode (TTM), or stages of change, has been used to identify intentions to modify various health behaviors including exercise participation. In the last decade, several investigations have reported beneficial use of this model for physical activity participation at the worksite. While there are data available on the operational use of TTM for exercise readiness, limited empirical evidence exists on related health promotion tools the health risk assessment (HRA) used to stage or categorize exercise behavior and their applicability in a community setting involving culturally diverse populations. This presentation review retrospectively the: (1) applicability of stages of change to promote exercise participation in the worksite setting, and its implications for the community setting, and (2) suitability of the HRAs used to stage exercise behavior for a multicultural environment. Considerations included:  Are there age, gender, or culturally specific considerations?  Can the data be used for development of culturally sensitive, effective interventions?  Are the operational tools/HRAs measuring stage in a manner consistent with theory? The present study extends the current literature by incorporating results from a study on 1345 employees in a state health science center university setting. Results suggest future sue of stages of change for community-based studies on exercise behavior modification in diverse populations, as a potential tool for eliminating health disparities.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Community, Exercise
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.