NETA Personal Trainer Practice Exam

In which stage of the Transtheoretical Model does an individual actively take steps towards physical activity?

1. Maintenance

2. Precontemplation

3. Action

4. Contemplation

The correct answer is: Action

In the Transtheoretical Model, the stage where an individual actively takes steps toward physical activity is the Action stage. This phase is characterized by individuals who have recently implemented a change in their behavior, such as incorporating regular exercise into their routine. They are actively engaging in new behaviors for a minimal period, typically defined as less than six months. During the Action stage, individuals are not just thinking about change or making plans; they are taking definitive steps to alter their habits. This can involve participating in workouts, joining a gym, or setting specific fitness goals. It's a crucial period because it requires commitment and effort to establish new, healthy routines. Furthermore, support systems, motivation, and self-efficacy play significant roles during this stage, as individuals work to maintain their new behaviors in the face of challenges. In contrast, individuals in the Precontemplation stage are not yet considering change, while those in the Contemplation stage are thinking about it but not yet taking action. Finally, the Maintenance stage involves sustaining the new behavior over time, typically after six months of consistent practice.