Testing the effects of message framing, kernel state, and exercise guideline adherence on exercise intentions and resolve

Objectives
To study the effects of framed messages on exercise intention and resolve.

Design
Two (type of frame: gain or loss) × 2 (type of kernel state: desirable or undesirable outcome) post-test study.

Methods
Participants were recruited online and questioned about their previous exercise behaviour and their exercise risk perception. After this, they were randomly allocated to one of four messages that were different in terms of positive or negative outcomes (type of frame) and in terms of attained or avoided outcomes (type of kernel state). After reading the message, participants indicated their intention and resolve to engage in sufficient exercise.

Results
No effects were found for intention. For resolve, there was a significant interaction between type of frame, type of kernel state, and exercise adherence. Those who did not adhere to the exercise guideline and read the loss-framed message with attained outcomes reported significantly higher resolve than all other participants.

Conclusions
This study indicates the relevance of including attained outcomes in message framing exercise interventions as well as a focus on exercise resolve.