Future orientation predicts physical activity adoption through conscious and non-conscious mechanisms among healthcare professionals

Promoting physical activity is a significant public health challenge. At the micro level, it requires individuals to shift from unhealthy to healthier habits, which requires a future-oriented mindset. We examined the effect of three future-related orientations - promotion focus, self-control, and delay discounting - on physical activity adoption. We also examined the mediating role of dual-process mechanisms, encompassing conscious (e.g., action planning) and non-conscious (habit strength) processes. The study involved 255 healthcare professionals who were surveyed for one week. Their orientations were measured at the beginning of the week, dual-process in the middle, and self-reported physical activity at the end. Step counts were recorded throughout the week using a fitness wristband. We found that promotion focus and self-control predicted both conscious and non-conscious mechanisms, while delay discounting had no effect. In addition, promotion focus and self-control indirectly affected physical activity adoption via the unconscious mechanism of habit strength. Future research should explore interventions that enhance habit formation, specifically tailored to the future-related orientations of healthcare employees. This will potentially improve their ability and confidence in promoting patient adherence.