These results are consistent with the findings from other
studies that reported different motivations for adherence to
and maintenance of exercise (Frederick-Recascino &
Schuster-Smith, 2003; Malby & Day, 2001). In the present
study, although rewards associated with extrinsic motivation
are defined as key aspects in the initial stages of adherence
to exercise, theoretical and empirical pieces of evidence point
to the importance of rewards related to intrinsic motivation
for the maintenance of such practice (Ryan et al., 1997).
Likewise, beginners are usually more oriented towards
results, unlike those who are more experienced and report
their preference for reasons associated with subjective
aspects of exercise, such as pleasure, well-being, satisfaction
and the opportunity to be with friends (Buckworth &
Dishman, 2002). A possible reason for this behavior could
be associated with the fact of individuals who have begun
exercising more recently not being yet aware of the benefits
that exercising can provide to the psycho-social dimension.
However, from the moment that these benefits are perceived,
they begin to act as a powerful incentive to continue
exercising.