Browsing by Author "Valtasola, Marleena"

Objectives. Lack of physical activity is considered as one of the most critical health challenges throughout the world. The aim of the current review study was to describe how personality is addressed in empirical studies aiming at analyzing and supporting physical activity in both traditional and technology-supported contexts and what kind of physical activity recommendations and research improvement proposals have been created based on this knowledge. It is also discussed, how this information could be applied in supporting and improving work ability. Methods. The study has been implemented as a scoping review, mapping the research relevant to the topic during the years 2005 – 2023. Searches were completed in seven databases (Pubmed, Cinahl, SportDiscus, Cochrane, PsychInfo, Web of Science and Scopus.) 7976 individual records were screened, and 29 records were selected as the research material based on co-operative process by the research group. The results have been described and summarised narratively. Results and conclusions. Personality traits extraversion and conscientiousness are consistently associated positively with physical activity. Neuroticism and physical activity have a consistent negative association. Tailoring the physical activity recommendations based on personality and utilising technological solutions according to the individual, science based needs could support the individuals’ physical activity level and indirectly also their work ability. By utilising personality-matching motivational strategies it is possible to support adults’ physical activity. As physical health is identified as an essential foundation of work ability, enhancing physical activity is suggested to also support the overall work ability. Further research on the impact of personality and potentially other psychological factors into physical activity is recommended to further support the development of psychologically individualised PA recommendations.