Enhancing Exercise Motivation through Functional Training: Evidence from a Semi-Experimental Study among Hospital Nurses
Paper ID : 1115-SPORTCONGRESS (R1)
Authors
Zeyenab Faridi1, Zahra Tanara Barough2, Touran Khatamzadeh Rad2, Roghayeh Ghasempour *3
1M.A. in Persian Literature, Islamic Azad University, Boukan Branch
2M.A. in Teaching English as a Foreign Language, Payame Noor University, Tabriz Branch
3M.A. in Exercise Physiology, Islamic Azad University, Shushtar Branch
Abstract
Introduction: Nurses play a vital role in healthcare systems, yet their demanding work conditions often lead to fatigue, low physical activity levels, and reduced motivation to engage in exercise. Promoting regular physical activity among nurses is essential to improve their health, well-being, and job performance. Functional training, characterized by multi-joint and movement-based exercises, has been proposed as an effective and time-efficient method for enhancing motivation and adherence to physical activity. The present study aimed to examine the effect of functional training on exercise motivation among hospital nurses.
Methods: This research employed a semi-experimental pretest–posttest design with a control group. The study population included all hospital nurses working in Miandoab City, Iran. Thirty-four nurses were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to experimental (n=17) and control (n=17) groups. The experimental group participated in an 8-week functional training program, while the control group maintained their usual routine. Data were collected using the Participation Motivation Questionnaire developed by Gill et al. (1983). Reliability of the instrument was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha (α = 0.80). Statistical analyses were performed using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, Levene’s test, and ANCOVA.
Results: The findings revealed a significant positive effect of functional training on exercise motivation among nurses (F = 18.38, p = 0.036). In addition, the subscales of achievement, physical readiness, energy release, and group cohesion showed notable improvements in the experimental group compared to the control group. These results suggest that functional training can enhance multiple motivational dimensions related to participation in exercise activities.
Conclusion: Functional training appears to be an effective strategy for improving exercise motivation among hospital nurses. By integrating such training programs into workplace health promotion initiatives, healthcare institutions can foster more active lifestyles, enhance nurses’ physical and psychological well-being, and ultimately improve overall healthcare quality.
Keywords
Functional Training, Exercise Motivation, Nurses, Health Promotion
Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation)