Predictors of Physical Activity Behavior in Female Health Workers; an Application of the Developed Theory of Planned Behavior

Aims As s than necessary in health system workers such as health workers. Explaining Physical activity by successful perceptual frameworks such as the developed theory of planned behavior identifies the factors influencing this complex behavior to design effective educational interventions. This study aimed to assess path analysis of the Physical activity of health workers based on the developed theory of planned behavior with planning. Instrument Methods This analytical cross-sectional study was performed on 210 female health workers at Babol University of Medical Sciences in 2019. Data were collected by a valid and reliable theory of planned behavior-based questionnaire. Data were analyzed by SPSS 21 and Lisrel 8.8 software using the maximum likelihood method and correlation matrix at a significance level of less than 5%. Findings A total of 210 female health workers with a mean age of 39.35±8.64 participated. The developed theory of planned behavior model explained 62, 56, 37, and 58% of the variances of behavioral intention, action planning, coping planning, and Physical activity behavior, respectively. The intention was predicted by perceived behavioral control. Behavior was explained by intention, perceived behavioral control, and action planning, respectively. Fit indices showed that the developed model was fitted to the data (Relative Chi-square=1.58, RMSEA: 0.05, Comparative Fit Index: 1, Goodness of Fit Index: 0.98). Conclusion Intention, perceived behavioral control, and action planning, based on the developed theory of planned behavior, were the constructs influencing physical activity behavior. It is necessary to consider these structures and their relationships in designing educational interventions to promote physical activity in health workers as a key element in promoting community health.