Cognitive reframing: Implementing a novel strategy to challenge exercise-related cognitive errors

Exercise-related cognitive errors (ECEs) represent a biased view of information that distorts individuals' view of exercise. Individuals with greater ECEs express more struggle in deciding to exercise, lower confidence to manage exercise, and have lower and more erratic exercise engagement. Cognitive reframing is an evidence-based counselling strategy whereby individuals are taught to identify, challenge, and reframe their unhelpful and negative thoughts. The present study assessed the influence of a cognitive reframing strategy tailored for exercise in modifying negative exercise thoughts of individuals making ECEs. Adults struggling to regularly exercise (N=12) received a 20-minute cognitive reframing session. Pre- and post-reframing cognitions were assessed (i.e., ECEs, decisional struggle, self-regulatory efficacy to manage ECEs [SRE], exercise intention). Overall, participants reduced their ECE level (Mean change=.57, Cohen's d=.27) and decisional struggle (Mean change=2.94, Cohen's d=2.1), and increased their intentions (Mean change=1.43, Cohen's d=.47) and SRE (Mean change=22.6, Cohen's d=.74). The reframing process will be illustrated via a participant case. Pam initially viewed exercise through the Catastrophizing ECE, believing she was always being judged when she exercised. She used reframing to change that thought to, very few people might actually try to judge me. She was also overwhelmed by the thought that the only way to fitness was through intense exercise; an All-or-Nothing ECE. She reframed this view to, maybe I can be successful by starting slow. Cognitive reframing may hold potential as a cognitive strategy to help individuals who view exercise through the biased thinking of ECEs.Acknowledgments: Diabetes Canada Postdoctoral Fellowship; MSFHR Postdoctoral Fellowship; Canada Research Chair Training Funds