The positive benefits of physical activity for health, and mental health, are now widely acknowledged, yet levels of sedentary behaviour continue to increase throughout the developed world. Understanding the psychology of exercise has therefore become an important concern for scientists, health professionals and policy-makers alike. Psychology of Physical Activity is a comprehensive and in-depth introduction to the fundamentals of exercise psychology, from theories of motivation and adherence to the design of successful interventions for increasing participation.

Now in a fully revised, updated and expanded third edition, Psychology of Physical Activity is still the only textbook to offer a full survey of the evidence-base for theory and practice in exercise psychology, and the only textbook that explains how to interpret the quality of the research evidence. With international cases, examples and data included throughout, the book also offers the most detailed examination of the relationship between physical activity and mental health of any exercise psychology textbook. The third edition includes a greatly expanded range of useful features for teaching and learning, such extended discussion of key concepts, review and discussion questions, learning activities and annotated guides to further reading and resources. A full companion website offers further useful features to help students and lecturers get the most out of the book during their course, including multiple-choice revision questions, flashcards, Powerpoint slides, an instructors' guide and a test bank of additional short answer and essay questions.

Psychology of Physical Activity is the most authoritative, engaging and up-to-date introduction to exercise psychology currently available. It is essential reading for all students working in exercise and health sciences.