![Self Esteem may Improve Exercise Habits in Cancer Survivors Self Esteem may Improve Exercise Habits in Cancer Survivors](https://www.medindia.net/afp/images/Health-France-lifestyle-exercise-17846.jpg)
In this study, funded by the National Cancer Institute, information was collected from 100 endometrial cancer survivors to measure self-efficacy –a person's belief in her ability to complete tasks and reach goals – and exercise duration. Additionally, researchers conducted routine laboratory cardiorespiratory fitness assessments of the participants. Researchers studied the relationship between self-efficacy and exercise behaviors over six months.
Self-efficacy was measured two ways. Study participants carried hand-held computers and every morning recorded their self-efficacy, or confidence, in completing recommended exercise, and also used the computer to record how long they exercised. They completed questionnaires every two months to measure self-efficacy.
A one point increase in self-efficacy led to six more minutes of exercise
Each participant received a personalized exercise recommendation based on guidelines from the American College of Sports Medicine. They also were given printed materials, a pedometer and access to telephone counseling to help them increase their amount of exercise.
Important findings of the study included the daily effect of self-efficacy on exercise duration. Higher self-efficacy in the morning was associated with significantly more moderate-to vigorous intensity exercise during the day. For every one point increase in self-efficacy, participants increased their exercise routine by six minutes.
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"Our observations make a unique contribution to research by revealing a sense of how the self-efficacy-behavior relationship works outside the laboratory," said Basen-Engquist. "Our next step will be to determine if we can provide messages to cancer survivors in real time, using methods like email or smart phone applications, to increase their self-efficacy and encourage them to exercise more."
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Source-Eurekalert