Effect of transtheoretical model-based training given to overweight adults on body image and exercise behavior

Objective: This study aims to investigate the effect of transtheoretical model-based training given to overweight adults on the body image and exercise behavior. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted using pre- and post-tests with a control group between June 4th and July 16th, 2018 in the Rüstempaşa FHC, in the province of Elazığ, Turkey. The study sample consisted of 150 patients determined by power analysis. In the study, transtheoretical model-based training was provided to overweight adults in the experimental group. No intervention was applied to the control group. In the data collection, Sociodemographic Characteristics Form, the Stages of Exercise Change Short Form, Exercise Change Processes Scale, Exercise Self-Effectiveness Scale, Exercise Decision Making Balance Scale, and Body Image Scale were used. In addition to the scales, a pedometer was used to objectively measure the level of physical activity. In the evaluation of the data, chi square test, percentiles, mean, paired t test and the independent groups t test were used. Results: In the stages of exercise change scale, the rate of individuals in the experimental group who were in the action stage and in the maintenance stage in the pre-test was found to increase from 5.3% to 77.4%. There was a significant difference between the experimental and control groups in terms of comparison of the pre- (p>0.05) and post-tests (p<0.001) of the exercise change stages. There was a significant difference between the overall score averages of TTM scales among the groups (p<0.001). According to the results, the average number of steps in the experimental group was found to increase in the post-test compared to the pre-test, while there was no significant increase in the number of steps in the control group. In addition, there was an increase in post-test body image scale scores of individuals in the experimental group compared to the pre-test. Conclusion: The transtheoretical model-based training given to overweight adults was found to have a positive effect on exercise behavior and body image in the experimental group. Keywords: Overweight, Exercise Behavior, Transtheoretical Model, Body İmage, Nurse