Exercise Motivation and Self-Esteem: A Study on Teachers
Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to examine the relationship between exercise motivation and self-esteem among teachers and to determine whether these variables differ according to demographic characteristics such as gender, branch, and regular exercise participation.
Method: The study was conducted with the voluntary participation of 488 teachers working in different branches. Data were collected using the Exercise Motivation Attitude Scale and the Self-Esteem Scale. The obtained data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods, including descriptive statistics, group comparisons, and correlation analyses.
Results: The findings revealed a positive and statistically significant relationship between exercise motivation and self-esteem. While no significant gender difference was observed in overall exercise motivation, female teachers scored significantly higher in the negative attitude and thought sub-dimension. Teachers who exercised regularly had lower scores in the negative attitude and thought subdimension, whereas they had higher scores in the positive perspective and health and physical appearance and health subdimensions, as well as in overall exercise motivation. While no statistically significant difference was found in self-esteem levels according to gender, a significant difference was found according to teaching subject area.
Conclusion: The results indicate that higher levels of exercise motivation are associated with higher levels of self-esteem among teachers. Supporting teachers’ participation in regular physical activity may contribute positively to their psychological well-being, self-perception, and overall quality of life. Therefore, developing programs and practices that encourage physical activity among teachers is recommended.
Keywords
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Physical Fitness
Journal Section
Research Article
Publication Date
September 19, 2026
Submission Date
July 6, 2026
Acceptance Date
September 1, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Volume: 9 Number: 2026