Abstract

Searching for strategies promoting physical activity can be considered as one of the most important research topics in APA, in particular in consideration of the high rates of physical inactivity and the resulting negative consequences on health. Even though intervention research has to be application-oriented, there can be no
doubt that the search for more effective interventions enhancing health behaviors has to be theory-driven. In this contribution we present a theoretical approach which serve as a framework in at least two directions: First, behavioral determinants based on motivational and volitional factors are integrated into a broader theoretical perspective which provides an action-theoretical framework for health behavior in general and for the initiation of health enhancing physical exercise in particular. Second, the model offers a framework for setting-specific interventions enhancing physical activities. Empirical evidence will be presented from controlled intervention studies conducted in the fields of cardiac rehabilitation and obesity therapy. Verf.-Referat