ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

In the Stages of Change model, maintaining a behavior change encompasses a significant period during which an individual integrates new habits into their lifestyle. The period of 6-12 months is critical because it indicates that the individual has not only adopted the new behavior but has also established it as a part of their daily routine and lifestyle.

This timeframe is essential for solidifying the behavior change, as research suggests that it often takes several months for new habits to become stable. During this stage, individuals are typically past the initial challenges of adoption and begin to experience the benefits of their changes, which helps reinforce their commitment and adherence.

The length of time specified in the correct choice reflects a necessary duration for behavioral change to mature, particularly in the context of long-term health and wellness goals. Achieving over 6 months signifies that the individual has developed resilience against potential relapse and has likely implemented coping strategies to maintain their new habits, such as regular exercise or healthier eating patterns. Hence, maintaining the behavior for 6-12 months is often used as a benchmark in health and fitness fields to determine successful and sustainable behavior change.