Fatores Psicológicos na Prática de Aulas de Grupo: Um Estudo sobre o Papel do Tempo de Prática, da Perceção do Instrutor e da Satisfação de Necessidades Psicológicas na Motivação

Abstract

The present study investigates the dynamics of motivation for engaging in group exercise classes, focusing on the influence of three central variables: the perception of the instructor's image, the satisfaction and frustration of basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence, and relatedness), and practice duration. The sample, comprising 141 participants, was analyzed using a cross-sectional correlational design. The results showed that more selfdetermined forms of motivation (Intrinsic Motivation and Identified Regulation) were positively associated with a positive perception of the instructor. Additionally, the satisfaction of basic psychological needs emerged as a predictor of intrinsic motivation. A noteworthy finding was the significant relationship between practice duration and the satisfaction of relatedness, with long-term participants (more than three years) reporting a stronger sense of camaraderie and belonging. These findings highlight the importance of the instructor's role and the social environment in fostering long-term adherence, suggesting that the satisfaction of relatedness may be a key factor in retaining participants in group exercise classes.