AI reveals why people really exercise and how they stay motivated
Prof. Yftach Gepner & Prof. Israel Halperin
05 April 2025
What really motivates people to exercise?
A new study from Tel Aviv University, published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, used AI to analyze over 1,800 Reddit posts to uncover the real reasons people start and stick with physical activity. Led by Prof. Yftach Gepner, along with Prof. Israel Halperin, the research found that the most common motivation is improving physical appearance (23.9%), followed by maintaining physical (18.9%) and mental health (16.9%). Habit formation emerged as the most effective strategy for long-term adherence.
Read the full article on PsyPost:
AI reveals why people really exercise — and how they stay motivated