Explaining Post‐Exercise Cool‐Down Behavior: An Extended Theory of Planned Behavior Approach

Abstract

This study aimed to develop and empirically validate an integrated Behavioral framework explaining the cognitive, motivational, and social determinants of cool‐down Behavior among exercising individuals, by extending the Theory of Planned Behavior with exercise knowledge and injury risk awareness as domain‐specific antecedents, and social support as a moderating boundary condition within the intention‐behavior relationship. A quantitative cross‐sectional survey was conducted among exercising individuals in Taiwan (N = 312). Data were collected using validated self‐report measures and analyzed through partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM) using ADANCO 2.3. All hy‐pothesized relationships were supported (p < .001). Exercise knowledge significantly predicted attitude (β = 0.642), and injury risk awareness positively influenced perceived behavioral control (β = 0.624). Both attitude (β = 0.487) and perceived behavioral control (β = 0.412) significantly predicted behavioral intention, which in turn strongly predicted actual cool‐down behavior (β = 0.698). Social support significantly moderated the intention–behavior relationship (β = 0.187), strengthening behavioral enactment under supportive conditions. This study addresses a crit‐ical gap by examining cool‐down behavior as a distinct recovery practice within the TPB framework. By integrating domain‐specific cognitive antecedents and a social contextual moderator, the study advances theoretical understanding of the intention–behavior process and provides actionable insights for designing multi‐component interventions to improve post‐exercise recovery adherence.