Based on transtheoretical model and self-determination theory, this study aimed to analyze adolescents' motivation in different stages of change for exercise. 662 adolescents aged between 14 to 19 years-old, divided proportionally among 12 districts of Florianópolis/SC/Brazil were investigated. Questionnaires were used and data was analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics. Adolescents in different stages of change have different motivations for physical exercise practice. Amotivation is stronger at the beginning of the stages of change. Adolescents who go through for de end of the stages are more intrinsically motivated. Boys who perform physical exercise are more self-determined than adolescents in pre-contemplation and contemplation. We concluded that intervention to change sedentary behavior must increase intrinsic motivation and self-determination of adolescents.
Exercise; Motivation; Adolescents
