The role of social capital and community belongingness for exercise adherence: An exploratory study of the CrossFit gym model

Jessica Whiteman-Sandland, Jemma Hawkins, Debbie Clayton*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

54 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This is the first study to measure the ‘sense of community’ reportedly offered by the CrossFit gym model. A cross-sectional study adapted Social Capital and General Belongingness scales to compare perceptions of a CrossFit gym and a traditional gym. CrossFit gym members reported significantly higher levels of social capital (both bridging and bonding) and community belongingness compared with traditional gym members. However, regression analysis showed neither social capital, community belongingness, nor gym type was an independent predictor of gym attendance. Exercise and health professionals may benefit from evaluating further the ‘sense of community’ offered by gym-based exercise programmes.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1545-1556
Number of pages12
JournalJournal of Health Psychology
Volume23
Issue number12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 23 Aug 2016

Keywords

  • community health psychology
  • exercise behaviour
  • physical activity
  • social capital
  • social support

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