Explaining Physical Activity and Self-Rated Health Through Motivation and Perceived Service Quality: A Structural Equation Model
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background/Objectives: Understanding the determinants of physical activity (PA) and health outcomes requires integrating environmental and motivational perspectives. Grounded in Self-Determination Theory (SDT), this study tested a sequential model in which perceived sport infrastructure service quality enhances exercise motivation, which subsequently increases PA and leads to better self-rated health (SRT). Methods: A total of 546 recreational adult exercisers completed validated questionnaires assessing sport infrastructure service quality (SQAS), exercise motivation (MPAM-R), PA (IPAQ), and self-rated health. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to examine the hypothesised relationships among variables. Results: The proposed sequential model was supported. Perceived service quality positively predicted exercise motivation (β = 0.255, p < 0.001), motivation significantly predicted PA (β = 0.266, p < 0.001), and PA was positively associated with self-rated health (β = 0.115, p < 0.005). Model fit indices indicated a good and acceptable fit to the data (CFI = 0.947, TLI = 0.935, NFI = 0.914, GFI = 0.931, RMSEA = 0.072, SRMR = 0.067, χ2/df = 3.85). Conclusions: The findings underscore the importance of high-quality exercise infrastructure as a key environmental factor that supports motivational engagement and promotes healthier behaviour patterns. Interventions aimed at increasing PA and improving perceived health should address both environmental quality and motivational processes.
Source: Healthcare
Authors: Vojko Vučković, Klemen Širok, Marta Bon
Institutions: University of Ljubljana, University of Primorska
Language: English
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,258
OpenAlex ID: W7128799323