Self‐compassion improves barrier self‐efficacy and subsequently physical activity: A test of longitudinal mediation using a representative sample of the United Kingdom

Adopting a self-compassionate mind facilitates engagement and maintenance of physical activity. Future studies could consider accelerometer-based physical activity measures and develop and validate a more context-specific state self-compassion measure tailored for physical activity contexts. Researchers and practitioners should consider incorporating self-compassion to future interventions and education programmes for promoting physical activity.