Testing of the health action process approach model to predict physical activity behaviours of women experiencing urinary incontinence

Background: This study evaluated the validity and reliability of the Health Action Process Approach model to predict physical activity behaviours in women experiencing urinary incontinence. Methods: Participants (n = 389) completed a series of measures evaluating motivational and volitional factors related to health behaviour change, with data analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling. Results: The results demonstrated the model’s reliability, with the constructs of self-efficacy and outcome expectancies being strongly associated with behavioural intentions. Maintenance self-efficacy was identified as a key predictor of planning constructs, but intention and planning were less predictive of physical activity behaviour than anticipated. The inclusion of specific constructs to measure urinary incontinence outcome expectancies also highlighted the complex nature of the way urinary incontinence is experienced by women inside and outside of the physical environment. Conclusions: These findings emphasise the need for tailored interventions addressing both motivational and planning processes to bridge the intention–behaviour gap in this population. Further research is recommended to refine models for specific subgroups, incorporating age and health condition variables, to enhance intervention efficacy and promote lifelong physical activity engagement for women experiencing urinary incontinence.