(PS8-19) Shared Physical Activity Goals During the Transition to Parenthood

Physical activity is an important factor in health and wellbeing across the lifespan. Additionally, the transition to parenthood represents a significant life event characterized by a variety of physical and psychological changes. As such, disruption in one’s physical activity engagement may occur during this time. Shared physical activity goals within the context of romantic relationships may enhance one’s likelihood to engage in physical activity. Despite well-documented associations between the role of goal setting in health behavior maintenance and change, limited studies have examined couples’ shared physical activity goals during the transition to parenthood. To address this gap, the current study recruited 97 first-time parent couples early in pregnancy (N=194). Each partner was asked to complete an online survey during the first trimester, at 36-weeks of pregnancy, and at 6-months postpartum. The extent to which couples have a shared physical activity goal was measured using a 5-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (We definitely do not share a physical activity goal) to 5 (We definitely do share a physical activity goal). Participants who reported having some shared physical activity goal (i.e., a score of 2 or greater) were then asked to what extent they discussed this shared physical activity goal with their partner and to describe the goal in an open-ended response. During the first trimester, 73.1% of female participants and 68.7% of male participants reported having some shared physical activity goal. At 36-weeks pregnant, 82.1% of female participants and 74.3% of male participants reported having some shared physical activity goal. At 6-months postpartum, 88.1% of female participants and 75% of male participants reported having some shared physical activity goal. Qualitative analyses of open-ended responses revealed general goals such as increasing or decreasing physical activity as well as setting specific goals such as participation in an event (e.g., 5K). Quantitative analyses will examine changes in endorsement and partner communication of goals. Changes in goals across the transition to parenthood will be discussed. Results from the present study may inform the development of couples-based physical activity interventions at a critical period during which new parents are establishing life-long health habits for themselves and their children.