Validation of the Italian version of the intuitive exercise scale: a four-factor structure in the general population

Purpose: Intuitive exercise may foster healthier engagement in physical activity, leading to enhanced well-being and more intuitive eating habits. The Intuitive Exercise Scale (IEXS) was originally developed to assess this construct in English speakers. The IEXS is composed of four scales addressing distinct facets of intuitive exercise: emotional exercise, body trust, exercise rigidity, mindful exercise. The present study aimed to validate an Italian translation of the IEXS, exploring its factorial structure, invariance, internal consistency, and convergent validity. Methods: A sample of 1140 women and men (age: M = 45.25, SD = 11.64, range 22–76 years) was recruited from the Italian general population; 61.8% were physically active. Inclusion criteria were being an Italian native speaker and being at least 18 years. The sample was randomly split in two equal halves for the Exploratory Factor Analysis (n = 570; women: 50%; physically active: 61.8%) and the Confirmatory Factor Analysis ...