Binghamton Research Days Student Presentations

Jessica Jesnes - Jesnes, Jebens, Jenkins, Hanna.pdf

Analysis of the Relationship Between Exercise, Diet, and Motivation

Jessica Jesnes, Madison Hanna, Emily Jebens, Kate Jenkins

First-Year Research Immersion (FRI)

Social Science

Mentor: Lina Begdache

Abstract

This research focuses on the relationship between exercise, motivation and diet, and their association with one another. The research was further specified by studying the relationship between frequent exercise, which was determined to be four times a week or more, and the motivation to consume a nutrient-rich diet. An anonymous online survey was administered through word of mouth, social media apps, and group chats in which we received 138 responses. The survey included basic demographic questions and questions on eating habits, exercise habits, and mental health. The data collected was analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. The study results supported the study’s hypothesis that those who exercise frequently are more motivated to eat a healthier diet overall. A healthy diet was defined as one which is high in flaxseed, whole grains, and fruits and low in fast food, caffeine and food high in sugar. There is a positive correlation between frequent exercise and one’s likelihood of keeping track of and accomplishing goals (r=0.228**). Similarly, there was a positive correlation between frequent exercise and one’s willpower (r=0.196*) and their ability to enforce change in their own life (r=0.181*). Overall, frequent exercise was found to be positively correlated with a balanced diet and increased motivation to accomplish goals and enforce change in one’s life.