Definitions of determinants of physical activity behaviour: process and outcome of consensus from the DE-PASS expert group
Background
Despite extensive research on physical activity behaviour (PAB), consensus is lacking on related terms and definitions, thereby hindering the ability to compare findings between studies and to develop reliable assessment tools. This study therefore aimed to establish consensus on the definitions of key PAB determinants.
Methods
First, an international expert steering committee was established, comprising members of the European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) action “DEterminants of Physical ActivitieS in Settings” (DE-PASS). Recently published review-level studies were used to identify key determinants of PAB. Two independent reviewers systematically reviewed the literature to catalogue the range of definitions used for key determinants of PAB (steps 1–2). A two-round modified Delphi survey was conducted online from February to September 2023, to determine the optimal definition for each determinant. In round 1, experts selected the most suitable definition for each of the 41 initially identified determinants. In round 2, experts ranked the appropriateness of the definition selected from round 1 on a 5-point Likert scale. Consensus was defined a priori as ≥ 75% agreement on the definition (i.e., ratings of ≥ 4 points). A professional English language expert ensured concise, coherent wording and high-quality editing of the definitions (steps 3–6).
Results
Eighty-five experts in PAB research participated in round 1, and sixty-nine experts in round 2. Consensus of definitions was achieved for 39 of the 41 determinants (88.4%–98.6% agreement). The consensus threshold was not achieved for two determinants: genetic profile and regulation (69.6%) and backyard access/size (73.9%).
Conclusions
The findings of this study offer a consensus-based set of definitions for 39 key determinants of PAB. These definitions can be used homogenously in academic research on physical activity.
Funding
Center for Innovative Care and Health Technology
Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia
Find out more...History
Publication
International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 2025, 22 (34)Publisher
SpringerOther Funding information
This work was funded by the Virtual Mobilities and Short Time Scientifc Missions grants of COST Action CA19101, titled ’Determinants of Physical Activities in Settings’ (DE-PASS). JD was supported by the project“Research of Excellence on Digital Technologies and Wellbeing CZ.02.01.01/00/22_008/0004583” which is co-fnanced by Europe Union. JC acknowledges the support of the Center for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), funded by Portuguese national funds provided by Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (UIDB/05704/2020). JCR acknowledges the support of the Research Center in Physical Activity, Health and Leisure (UID/DTP/00617/2020), and Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (LA/P/0064/2020), funded by Portuguese national funds provided by Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia. Funding organizations had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.Also affiliated with
- Health Research Institute (HRI)
Sustainable development goals
- (3) Good Health and Well-being
External identifier
Department or School
- Physical Education and Sports Science
