ABSTRACT
Objective This study applied the theory of planned behavior to investigate the leisure exercise situation among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its influencing factors. Methods The questionnaire was self-designed based on the theory of planned behavior, which had good reliability and validity. Structural equation modeling was used to estimate the determinants of leisure exercise and the potential intermediate effect. Results 774 patients with T2DM were enrolled in this study. 52.6% were over 60 years old. The median amount of leisure exercise was 0.0 thousand-step equivalent with quartile of (0.0, 2.0). Structural equation modeling showed that the effects of attitude (β=0.080) and intention (β=0.277) on leisure exercise were significant. Besides, perceived behavioral control (β=0.180) had an indirect effect on exercise through intention. Conclusions In general, most patients with type 2 diabetes have insufficient amount of exercise. Improving attitude, control and intention to exercise would be one crucial part of exercise health education among patients with T2DM.