Which of the following is NOT a key principle of exercise behavior change?

Setting rigid exercise goals is not regarded as a key principle of exercise behavior change because effective behavior change is often associated with flexibility and adaptability rather than strict or inflexible targets. While having goals is certainly important, they should be realistic, achievable, and adjustable based on an individual’s progress and circumstances. Rigid goals can lead to frustration and discourage participation, as they may not account for personal variations in motivation, ability, and life situations.

In contrast, the other principles emphasize a more holistic view of what influences exercise behavior. Understanding that change requires more than just willpower acknowledges the role of environmental and psychological factors. Recognizing multiple levels of influence on motivation highlights that various social, cultural, and personal variables play a crucial role in a person's ability to engage in consistent physical activity. Additionally, finding personal meaning in exercise fosters intrinsic motivation, which is more sustainable in the long run compared to extrinsically imposed, rigid goals.