A2 Review article, Literature review, Systematic review
Physical activity and sense of coherence : a meta-analysis (2023)

Moyers, S. A., & Hagger, M. S. (2023). Physical activity and sense of coherence : a meta-analysis. International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 16(1), 257-285. https://doi.org/10.1080/1750984X.2020.1846068

JYU authors or editors

Hagger, Martin

Publication details

All authors or editors: Moyers, Susette A.; Hagger, Martin S.

Journal or series: International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology

ISSN: 1750-984X

eISSN: 1750-9858

Publication year: 2023

Publication date: 30/11/2020

Volume: 16

Issue number: 1

Pages range: 257-285

Publisher: Routledge

Publication country: United Kingdom

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/1750984X.2020.1846068

Publication open access: Not open

Publication channel open access:

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/72906

Abstract

The salutogenic model of health proposes that sense of coherence, a multi-dimensional construct representing individuals’ perceptions that their environment is comprehensible, manageable, and meaningful, is a key determinant of stress management and well-being. Generalized resistance resources such as preventive health orientation, material resources, and social support are proposed as determinants of sense of coherence. Health behaviors, particularly physical activity, are proposed as indicators of a preventive health orientation and predictors of sense of coherence. We synthesized research on the relationship between physical activity and sense of coherence using three-level meta-analysis, and tested effects of key moderators of the relationship. Database and manual searches identified 52 studies meeting inclusion criteria with 73 effect sizes testing the relationship. The analysis revealed a small non-zero physical activity-sense of coherence correlation with significant heterogeneity. Demographic variables, version of sense of coherence scale, physical activity measure, study design and quality, physical activity intensity, and time lag did not moderate the correlation. Findings suggest a robust but small correlation between physical activity participation and sense of coherence across studies. Studies that test the relationship using experimental or intervention designs, adopt more precise measures, and include measures of other health behaviors and generalized resistance resources are needed.

Keywords: health behaviour; coherence; physical activity; physical training; meta-analysis

Free keywords: sense of coherence; salutogenic model of health; physical activity; exercise; generalized resistance resources; health behavior

Fields of science: