Motivation for Weight Loss

•This study fills a gap in knowledge by examining the impact of motivation on weight loss in a group of urban black women participating in a weekly exercise and nutrition-focused weight loss program.•Autonomous motivation for healthy diet (r = .627) and initial weight (r = .635) were significantly correlated with average weekly weight loss.•Findings from this study can be used to tailor weight loss interventions according to an individual’s predicted averagely weekly weight loss estimate.

This pilot study focuses on the impact of types of initial diet and exercise motivation on weight loss in a group of urban black women who attended a 12-week clinic-based weight loss program. Seventeen program participants completed the Treatment Self-Regulation Questionnaire at the initial session. Weekly weights and pre-post blood pressure and body mass index values were obtained. Autonomous motivation for a healthy diet (β = .77, P = .002) and initial weight (β = .02, P = .001) contributed significantly to the regression model. Predictors of average weekly weight loss can help to tailor interventions. Positive features of the program are discussed.