Fitness training adherence of elite netball players

• Main Author: Palmer, Claire Louise
• Published: Manchester Metropolitan University 1999
• Subjects: 796; Sport & Recreation
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.302627

This programme of research contributed to the understanding of the process of fitness training adherence of elite netball players. It was designed to quantify fitness training adherence using a valid method of measurement, identify fitness training facilitators and barriers, examine the utility of social cognitive theories in predicting and explaining fitness training adherence and assess the efficacy of a theory-based intervention aimed at improving training adherence. In Chapter 2.1, the strong correlations between the diary measures and a 3-week recall measures for aerobic and strength training frequency (r = .64 and .70, p < .01, respectively) provided support for the construct validity of the diary method. Adherence was moderate for both aerobic (71 + 27%, M ± SD) and strength training (65 + 30%). Moreover, only 1 player (4%) managed to fully adhere to the recommended programme. Chapter 2.2 examined the utility of the Theory of Planned Behaviour and Social Cognitive Theory in predicting aerobic training adherence. Neither of the theories significantly predicted adherence behaviour. However, within both of the theories, past training behaviour accounted for a significant unique portion of the variance in training adherence. In Chapter 2.3 a cross-case analysis of semi-structured interview data revealed that the key facilitators and barriers of fitness training behaviour could be usefully viewed within the framework of the revised Theory of Planned Behaviour. Chapter 2.4 examined the utility of Social Cognitive Theory, the Theory of Planned Behaviour and the revised Theory of Planned Behaviour in predicting fitness training adherence. The revised Theory of Planned Behaviour proved to be the best predictor of training adherence, accounting for 80% (77% adjusted) of the variance. Social Cognitive Theory and the Theory of Planned Behaviour accounted for 500/0 (41 % adjusted) and 21 % (11 % adjusted) of the variance in training adherence, respectively. Chapter 2.5 investigated the efficacy of an intervention, based on the predictions of the revised Theory of Planned Behaviour, designed to improve training adherence. Large effect sizes (0.93 - 3.80) for improvements in adherence between baseline and post-intervention were found for 13 players (760/0). A follow-up assessment over 7- weeks showed that players' training adherence remained improved.