Similar exercise adherence and physical fitness outcomes are observed across distinct motivation profiles in older adults participating in a home-based structured exercise programme

Purpose:Motivation and self-efficacy are established predictors of engagement and persistence within structured exercise programmes; however, it remains unclear whether these psychological factors predict objective adherence metrics and associated physical fitness outcomes within home-based exercise programmes for older adults. This study adopted a person-centred approach to examine whether distinct psychological profiles predict adherence and fitness outcomes following a structured home-based exercise programme.Methods:Eighty-eight older adults (age = 67.2 ± 5.5 years) completed a 26-week home-based exercise programme. Objective adherence was defined as compliance with prescribed exercise volume and quantified using cumulative metabolic equivalent minutes (MET-mins) derived from heart rate–based measures of exercise intensity and duration. Psychological profiles were identified using latent profile analysis based on autonomous motivation, controlled motivation, and exercise self-efficacy. Cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, flexibility, and mobility were assessed pre- and post-intervention.Results:Two psychological profiles were identified: an autonomous and highly confident profile and a moderately autonomous and confident profile. Controlled motivation was comparable between profiles, and no differences were observed in baseline demographic or physiological characteristics. Adherence was high and similar across profiles (e.g., cumulative MET-mins: 129 ± 66% vs. 116 ± 38%). Both profiles demonstrated significant and comparable improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness (V̇O₂peak), muscular strength, flexibility, and mobility.Conclusions:Baseline differences in self-efficacy and autonomous motivation did not predict objective adherence or fitness outcomes within a structured, well-supported home-based exercise programme for older adults. Consistent objective monitoring and regular behavioural support may therefore reduce the impact of psychological profile membership on adherence and outcomes.Keywords: ageing; exercise adherence; home-based exercise; latent profile analysis; autonomous motivation; self-efficacy