Social support, physical exercise and life satisfaction in women / Apoyo social, ejercicio físico y satisfacción con la vida en mujeres

ABSTRACT

Abstract This study examined the predictive relationship between perceived autonomy sup port from the family and fitness instructors, psychological needs, intrinsic motivation, health goal, regular physical activity and life satisfaction in a group of women. 355 physically active women aged 18-82 (M = 35.30, SD = 12.20) participated in the study. The results of the struc tural equation model showed that the results of the analysis of the structural equations model established a positive relation between perceived autonomy support and psychological needs, which related positively to intrinsic motivation. Likewise, intrinsic motivation related positively to health goal, which in turn related positively to regular physical activity, and finally, physical education showed a positive relation with life satisfaction. The results of this study show the need for social-cognitive physical interventions in order to maximize the benefits of physical exercise among women.

RESUMEN

Resumen Este estudio analizó la relación predictiva entre la percepción de apoyo a la autonomía de la familia y del técnico deportivo, los mediadores psicológicos, la motivación intrínseca, la salud, la práctica de actividad física habitual y la satisfacción con la vida en un grupo de mujeres. Participaron 355 practicantes de ejercicio físico con edades comprendidas entre 18 y 82 años (M = 35.30, SD = 12.20). Los resultados del análisis del modelo de ecuaciones estructurales mostraron que la percepción de apoyo a la autonomía predecía positivamente los mediadores psicológicos, que a su vez, fueron predictores positivos de la motivación intrínseca.