Track: Undergraduate Student Paper Competition

Abstract

Physical inactivity and unhealthy lifestyle among individuals are persistent societal problems that have negative implications on one’s health. With the COVID-19 pandemic breakout, there has been an alarming rise in sedentary behaviors, a decrease in fitness activities engagement, and apparent physical inactivity among people across different countries. By integrating the Theory of Effort Minimization (TEMPA) and Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) with socio-ecological factors into a single framework, this study aims to identify factors influencing the perceived behavior of Filipinos toward facilitating physical fitness and lifestyle wellness. Through the convenience sampling method, a self-administered questionnaire was disseminated using online platforms, with a total of 565 Filipinos being considered for this study. Results from multiple linear regression analysis showed that Age (p-value = 0.005), Media (p-value = 0.023), Self-efficacy (p-value = 0.000), Intent to Adapt (p-value = 0.002), Income (p-value = 0.034), and Diet (p-value = 0.000) were the key variables that affects the perceived behavior of Filipinos in boosting physical fitness and lifestyle wellness. This study has structured a model that could be utilized by the fitness industry, different government and educational institutions, Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), and other private and public institutions to establish effective strategies and interventions through fitness programs that will promote fitness and lifestyle wellness among different stakeholders.