The Relationship of Self-Reported Physical Activity with Enjoyment, Intention, Perceived Behavioral Control and Basic Psychological Needs of Youth Soccer Players

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the possible relationship between self-reported physical activity (PA) with enjoyment, intentions and perceived behavioral control to participate in light, moderate and vigorous PA and basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence, relatedness) of youth soccer players. Also, the aim of this study was to examine whether youth soccer players systematically participated in vigorous PA (VPA). The sample consisted of 329 youth athletes (M age: 11.99 ± 1.29 years) from 13 soccer clubs located in the area of Thessaly (Greece), that voluntarily participated in this study. Participants completed a number of valid and reliable questionnaires measuring self-report PA, intentions and perceived behavioral control to participate in light, moderate and vigorous PA and basic psychological needs. Results showed that enjoyment, intention and perceived behavioral control to participate in vigorous PA, autonomy, competence and relatedness were positively correlated with vigorous PA (VPA). Regarding self-reported PA levels, the vast majority of youth soccer players (90%) were classified as highly physically active, as they met the criterion of 24 units set by Godin (2011) in the Weekly Exercise Index, which is associated with significant benefits for their health. These results may be a "guide" for soccer coaches in order to create a "motivational climate" that increase enjoyment, intention and perceived behavioral control to participate in VPA and basic psychological needs of their athletes.