Applied Exercise Psychology

Now in its second edition, Applied Exercise Psychology emphasizes the application of evidence-based knowledge drawn from the fields of exercise psychology, health psychology, clinical and counseling psychology, and exercise physiology for physical activity behavior change. Thoroughly revised, the new edition offers readers:

• two new chapters covering Excusercise and Mood Alteration?s link to exercise;


• fully updated sections on current research and theoretical bases for understanding and promoting physical activity behavior;


• interventions for facilitating physical activity behavior change and the tools for measuring the effectiveness of these interventions;


• cross-cultural considerations for practitioners to ensure multicultural competency;


• considerations to guide best practices with special populations (e.g., persons with medical conditions and persons with mental health conditions);


• overall applied implications and future directions. 

An essential read that covers a variety of critical topics in applied exercise psychology, it brings often overlooked issues to the attention of practitioners to promote not only evidence-based practice but also responsible ethics and referral. The collection is a key reference for up-to-date research findings, relevant field experiences, and applied implications.

"This textbook surpasses the conventional mental performance literature by seamlessly incorporating the latest advancements in brain-body research. It explores topics such as narratives, cultural competencies, technology, and gaming, pushing the boundaries of research in these areas. Through practical, real-world illustrations, it translates scientific insights into actionable contemporary strategies. For educators and learners in search of the most recent developments in this dynamic field, this textbook provides a distinct viewpoint, covering not only mainstream perspectives but also addressing vulnerable populations. It offers a comprehensive, evidence-based overview, featuring contributions from leading experts and practitioners in the realm of exercise and sport psychology."

Melanie Poudevigne, Clayton State University, USA 

"This book really stands out by its breadth of topics, covering the fundamental theories and research, but also bringing exciting chapters on excuses, technology and exergaming, and positive psychology. The third section of the book on cross-cultural factors is also full of interesting information. Written by experts in the field, in a clear and concise manner, this book is a reference for anyone interested in exercise psychology. The strong evidence-based focus of this book makes it a must-have for practitioners and researchers alike. This second edition is assuredly setting itself as the gold standard in the field."

Jean-Charles Lebeau, Ball State University, USA

"Dr. Razon and Dr. Sachs have created an excellent resource for those wanting to understand and learn more about the value of exercise and the importance of it throughout our lifespan. This book covers a variety of subjects related to exercise and is supported by recent research. They have also included diverse populations and challenges they must overcome. Sachs and Razon, along with many contributors in the field, provide applicable ways for everyone to integrate exercise into their daily lives with a passion to help those live a life of longevity."

Nina Rios-Doria, MOOV Health & Wellness, USA

"Applied Exercise Psychology: The Challenging Journey from Motivation to Adherence, Second Edition, edited by Selen Razon and Michael L. Sachs, is a comprehensive and invaluable resource, promising to inform professional practice and insure optimal health related outcomes. This work impressively organizes a vast literature of foundational biological, psychological and social theory and illustrates relevant multi-disciplinary application. This text will be useful for fitness, wellness, medical and psychotherapy professionals, and essential for those wishing to skillfully; evaluate behavior patterns, understand the origins of behavior, identify influential factors, and prescribe interventions that motivate and sustain behavior change."

Jenny Conviser, ASCEND Consultation in Health Care, LLC, USA

Praise for the previous edition: 

"Razon and Sachs, along with nearly 60 international scholars, seek to narrow the gap between people?s good intentions toward living healthy, active lifestyles and their achievement of these goals. Their book uniquely links theory, research, and practice together in relatable, relevant, and nuanced ways ? ways that can truly make a difference!"

Bradley J. Cardinal, Oregon State University, USA

"This book provides a timely and important integration of research and application and will be essential reading for anyone interested in the field of applied exercise psychology. It breaks new ground regarding best practice, compiling contributions from world-leading scholars and highlighting important cross-cultural and demographic considerations. I can recommend it to students, researchers, and practitioners alike."

Chris Wagstaff, University of Portsmouth, UK