Effects of scripture-based pastoral counseling on exercise participation and adherence among male and female African American adults /

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of religious leaders' communication of Scripture on the exercise behavior, fitness, and exercise adherence of AA church attendees. The sample included 15 women, 2 males, all from two different predominately African American Southern-based churches. A ten-week exercise intervention was provided for members of both churches. Pre and post fitness scores were recorded and 2(group) x 2(pre and posttest) multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) were performed. Results indicate that Pastoral input had a negative impact on some fitness scores among church participants.