Stages of behaviour change for physical activity-
1. Pre-contemplation: People in this stage are not thinking about changing their inactive or sedentary behaviour and are not aware of their problem. They have not considered changing.
2. Contemplation: People in this stage have thought about their problem, can identify that they are inactive, and have devoted some thought to changing. They have not taken action to change, or they may be beginning to consider options for change.
3. Preparation/decision: People in this stage have begun the process of change by examining possibilities and options, such as considering a gym membership, looking at new exercise clothing, wanting to start using a pedometer, or contemplating a noonhour walking program.
4. Action: People in this stage have taken steps to overcome their sedentary lifestyle by modifying their behaviour, experiences, or environment in order to overcome their problem. Action involves the most overt behavioural changes and requires a commitment of time and energy. Early indicators of the action stage include steps such as evaluating different exercise facilities and costs, purchasing a gym membership, purchasing exercise equipment, joining a walking group, and using exercise equipment for physical activity rather than as “furniture.”
5. Maintenance: People in this stage consolidate the gains attained as a result of initial action through sustained involvement in the new behaviour, in this case an active lifestyle (or avoidance of the old behaviour—physical inactivity). Adoption of the new behaviour usually requires a ** of many weeks to months.
