Sequential mediation path from moderate exercise to weight loss through social cognitive theory variables.

An improved understanding of psychosocial factors and their dynamic changes and interrelations is required to increase comprehension of the effects of exercise on weight loss. Women (N = 99) participating in a theory-based, community-administered obesity program focused on self-regulation of weight-loss behaviors were assessed. Analyses of a theory- and causal chain-driven sequential multiple mediation model affirmed the hypothesized path from moderate exercise→decreased negative mood→increased self-regulation→increased self-efficacy→improved weight-loss behaviors→weight loss over 6 months. Alternate significant paths within the model reinforced an expected relationship between exercise-associated decrease in negative mood and increased self-regulation. Although completion/non-completion of the equivalent of 3 moderate bouts of exercise/week was significantly related to weight loss in bivariate analyses, it was no longer significant when the above mediators were sequentially entered. The mean observed loss of weight was -7.6%. Findings lent direction to more extensive and controlled research that could inform improvements in behavioral obesity treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]