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Associations Between Physical Activity and Nutrition Self-Efficacy and Self-Reported Physical Activity in Residents of Resource-Limited Neighborhoods

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: The authors explored the relationship between lifestyle behavior, self-efficacy, and self-reported physical activity among individuals with overweight/obesity residing in resource-limited neighborhoods. Methods: Using data from the Washington, DC Cardiovascular Health and Needs Assessment and the Step It Up digital health intervention study, the authors examined the relationships between self-efficacy and self-reported physical activity participation. Individuals completed the Physical Activity and Nutrition Self-Efficacy scale and the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, which assesses self-reported physical activity participation. Logistic and gamma regression models were performed to assess the associations between Physical Activity and Nutrition Self-Efficacy quintiles and (1) the odds of any physical activity participation and (2) the duration of physical activity participation. Results: The sample (N=227) had a mean age of 57.71 (±12.60) years and BMI of 34.55 (±7.19) and were predominantly female (90.75%). The majority had college education (57.55%) and less than $60,000 annual income (44.15%). Individuals who scored in the third quintile were 3.26 (95% CI=1.18, 9.02) and 3.97 (95% CI=1.46, 10.82) times more likely to report moderate physical activity and muscle-strengthening activity participation, respectively, than those who scored in the first quintile, after adjusting for sociodemographic factors. Those who scored in the third and fifth quintiles were 3.91 (95% CI=1.28, 11.97) and 5.92 (95% CI=1.90,18.47) times more likely to meet the guideline-recommended 150 minutes weekly moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Conclusions: Higher physical activity self-efficacy is associated with higher odds of participation, physical activity duration, and the odds of meeting the guideline-recommended weekly moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Interventions that augment self-efficacy may be particularly important in improving cardiovascular health by enhancing physical activity in individuals with obesity.

Source: AJPM Focus

DOI: 10.1016/j.focus.2026.100476