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Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

12-1-2024

Abstract

Introduction/objective: Subjective vitality is a crucial factor for overall well-being, as it positively impacts both physiological and psychological health. However, the underlying process through which exercise goal orientations (GOEM) predict subjective vitality (SV), mediated by exercise regulations (BREQ) and physical activity (PA), need further elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the direct effect of GOEM on SV, as well as the mediating role of BREQ and PA.

Methods: A sample of 492 Chinese university students (47% are female; 27% are freshman, 28% are sophomore, 23% are junior, and 22% are senior) completed self-report measures including the Subjective Vitality Scale, Goal Orientation in Exercise Measure, Regulation Questionnaire, and Physical Activity Questionnaire. Structural Equation Modeling was utilized to analyze the data, employing a regression model to determine the direct effect of GOEM on SV, and path analysis to evaluate the mediation of BREQ and PA.

Results: Exercise task orientation significantly and positively influenced subjective vitality (β = 0.455, P < 0.001), explaining 23.8% of the variance (P < 0.001). Additionally, exercise ego orientation had a positive effect on subjective vitality (β = 0.234, P < 0.001), although this effect was significantly lower than that of task orientation (Wald value = 25.897, P < 0.001). The model accounted for 9% of the variance in subjective vitality (P < 0.01). Mediation analyses indicated a significant mediating effect of exercise behavioral regulations (excluding external regulation) and physical activity (none of the 95% confidence intervals for the estimates contained 0).

Conclusion: These findings contribute to the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the effects of exercise goal orientation on subjective vitality, furthering Achievement Goal Theory and Self-Determination Theory.

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