Assessment of factors that predict physical activity among Oklahoma clergy: A theory of planned behavior approach

The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of physical activity among clergy members in Oklahoma using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). A 51-item, valid and reliable instrument measuring TPB constructs and physical activity was developed and administered to 141 clergy members. Results indicated that the majority of those surveyed were white (93%), college educated (97%), and overweight or obese (84%). Stepwise multiple regression found that intentions accounted for 13.8% of the variance of physical activity, while attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control accounted for 54.8% of the variance of intention. Future interventions should incorporate health counseling or motivational support groups that focus on mediating changes in behavioral attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control as a means to promote physical activity and healthier lifestyle among clergy. Implementing interventions that are sensitive to spirituality and religious roles also may enhance the likelihood of physical activity participation and may be instrumental in changing behaviors in this group. Likewise, exploring external factors that prevent clergy members from participating in physical activity may further explain the lower than expected relationship between intentions and physical activity behaviors in this group.