Physical activity is well established as a primary health promotion and cardiovascular disease prevention behavior, yet over 60% of the population does not participate in regular physical activity. Maintenance of regular physical activity is a complex behavior influenced by variables from several domains. This review includes studies of the relationship between physical activity in women and psychological, social environmental, demographic, physiologic, health status, and physical activity variables. A key issue in physical activity research is development of interventions for maintaining a physically active lifestyle. Interventions for maintenance of regular physical activity that have a strong theoretical basis will be beneficial to women in primary care settings, occupational settings, wellness centers as well as public health departments and other organizations that address the needs of women.

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