Evolution of physical activity automaticity, during habit formation: dynamic pattern and moderating factors

Abstract

International audienceBeing physically active implies a process of habit formation, characterized by increased automaticity (Gardner, 2012). As physical activity (PA) is performed in consistent situations, the behavior is based on some or all of the following features of automaticity: efficiency, lack of awareness, unintentionally and uncontrollability (Bargh, 1994). The patterns of automaticity evolution could be attributable to the nature of the behavior (Lally et al., 2010) and individual dispositions (e.g., personality). In this study, the development of automatic properties of a newly initiated PA was examined and characterized according to the impulsivity of participants and the characteristics of the PA performed