Training Plan Elements as Predictors of Exercise Motivation: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Motivation is a key determinant of sustained engagement in physical exercise; however, the influence of training plan elements on specific motivational dimensions remains insufficiently understood. This study aimed to examine the influence of training plan elements on motivation to exercise. A two-month cross-sectional study was conducted on a total sample of 1,087 participants from fitness centres in the Banja Luka region. Two sets of variables were applied: the first set, a self-developed questionnaire, was used to describe training plan elements such as training level, training mode, training structure, prescribed training plan, training type, training breaks, training frequency, and training volume, including the personal variable of gender; and the second set consisted of the EMI-2 questionnaire (Markland & Ingledew, 1997). The EMI-2 scale comprises 14 subscales: Social Recognition, Health Pressures, Competition, Weight Management, Affiliation, Challenge, Appearance, Stress Management, Ill-Health Avoidance, Nimbleness, Enjoyment, Strength and Endurance, Revitalisation, and Positive Health. Multiple regression analysis was performed to examine the predictive influence of training plan elements on the EMI-2 subscales. Overall, training type and training mode emerged as consistent positive predictors, whereas training level and structure functioned as a negative predictor, highlighting the complex and multidirectional relationship between training plan elements and exercise motivation.