The Effect of Rapport with Instructors on Exercise Adherence Intention among Middle-Aged Participants with Extrinsic Motivation : The Mediating Role of Exercise Satisfaction

Objectives This study aimed to empirically examine the mediating role of exercise satisfaction in the relationship between rapport formation by instructors and exercise adherence intention among middle-aged participants engaged in community sports activities. Methods A survey was conducted with 337 middle-aged adults participating in community sports programs in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province in 2024. The questionnaire included items on rapport formation, exercise satisfaction and exercise adherence intention. After verifying the validity and reliability of the measurement tools, correlation analysis and simple mediation regression analysis were performed. Results First, rapport formation had a positive effect on exercise adherence intention. Second, exercise satisfaction had a significant mediating effect on the relationship between rapport formation and exercise adherence intention. Conclusions The findings demonstrate that rapport formation by instructors positively influences both exercise satisfaction and the intention to continue exercising among middle-aged adults. These results highlight the importance of providing positive interpersonal experiences in community sports settings. Ultimately, the study offers practical implications for designing strategies to promote regular physical activity and healthy lifestyles among adults through effective leadership in sports programs.