Physical activity and sense of coherence: a meta-analysis

Abstract

The salutogenic model of health proposes that sense of coherence, a multi-dimensional construct representing individuals' perceptions that their environment is comprehensible, manageable, and meaningful, is a key determinant of stress management and well-being.Generalized resistance resources such as preventive health orientation, material resources, and social support are proposed as determinants of sense of coherence. Health behaviors, particularly physical activity, are proposed as indicators of a preventive health orientation and predictors of sense of coherence. We synthesized research on the relationship between physical activity and sense of coherence using three-level meta-analysis, and tested effects of key moderators of the relationship. Database and manual searches identified 52 studies meeting inclusion criteria with 73 effect sizes testing the relationship. The analysis revealed a small non-zero physical activitysense of coherence correlation with significant heterogeneity. Demographic variables, version of sense of coherence scale, physical activity measure, study design and quality, physical activity intensity, and time lag did not moderate the correlation. Findings suggest a robust but small correlation between physical activity participation and sense of coherence across studies. Studies that test the relationship using experimental or intervention designs, adopt more precise measures, and include measures of other health behaviors and generalized resistance resources are needed.

Association between Physical Fitness, Physical Activity Level and Sense of Coherence in Swedish Adolescents; An Analysis of Age and Sex Differences

“…Unexpectedly, there were no significant associations between SOC and physical training (PT) and everyday PA, which is in line with some previous studies [13,19], but opposing to others that showed a positive association between PA and mental health [59,60]. The use of a single item (e.g., question) to assess adolescent PA and PT might be a possible explanation for the lack of association between PA, PT, and SOC.…”

“…In general, SOC is a scale that measures how people use their generalized resistance resources (GRR) to deal with stress, as well as maintain and improve their health. Individuals with more available GRR (e.g., personal experience, self-esteem, money, social support, and intelligence) tend to do better coping with stressors and everyday life challenges [13]. SOC assesses three components: meaningfulness, comprehensibility, and manageability of life.…”

Sense of coherence, social support and religiosity as resources for medical personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic: A web-based survey among 4324 health care workers within the German Network University Medicine

“…Among nurses, a mindfulness-based intervention did successfully enhance SOC [55]. Furthermore, physical activity has been associated with a stronger SOC [56]. These activities could also be carried out at home, in light of the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.…”

Longitudinal Relation between Family Socio-Economic Status and Problem Behaviors in Chinese Children: The Roles of Sense of Coherence and Maternal Warmth

“…From a practical perspective, the findings inform mental health interventions of the need of improving the sense of coherence. For example, intervention studies have shown the effectiveness of regular participation in sports and healthy eating in building a strong sense of coherence [ 108 ]. Educators and clinicians may use the sense of coherence measures to screen for youth who may benefit from supportive interventions to strengthen their mental health [ 109 ].…”