OBJECTIVE: The present randomized controlled trial evaluated if a workplace physical activity (PA) program that comprises both a PA component and a psychological coaching component (PA+C) is more effective in changing cognitive determinants of PA than a PA program without coaching component. DESIGN: N = 213 employees were cluster-randomly assigned to two groups: the PA+C group received the MoVo-work intervention, combining a psychological coaching component and a PA component. The PA group received the PA component without psychological coaching. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Strength of goal intention, self-efficacy, outcome expectations, action planning and barrier management were assessed at five time points (before and at the end of the intervention, as well as 6 weeks, 6 months and 12 months after the intervention). RESULTS: After six weeks and one year, respectively, the PA+C group showed significantly higher goal intentions (p = 0.018) and self-efficacy beliefs (p = 0.006) than the PA group; and, at a descriptive level, a clear tendency towards better barrier management. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that a workplace PA program, including psychological coaching, may partially improve the effects of a pure PA program on critical motivational and volitional determinants of PA behavioural change among employees.

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