Physical inactivity poses a significant threat to health and well-being in developed countries, with rising numbers of inactive individuals across all demographics. This work offers a comprehensive analysis of health-enhancing physical activity, focusing on behavioral change and ecological models that consider individual, social, and environmental factors. The empirical section examines these factors' roles in physical activity behavior, specifically using running as a model. By concentrating on this activity, the study aims to understand various influences in a controlled environment. The research involved 539 middle-aged participants from a women’s fun run, who completed two questionnaires two years apart. Logistic regression analysis assessed the predictors of leisure-time running behavior during the follow-up. Findings showed that frequent use of behavioral techniques and high enjoyment of running, particularly in low family support contexts, predicted regular running adoption. Interestingly, those with high enjoyment and strong family support were less likely to start running. For regression from running, infrequent use of motives and poor perceived health, especially in attractive neighborhoods, were significant predictors. Additionally, individuals with poor health perceptions living in unattractive neighborhoods were more likely to regress from regular running. This work provides a multidisciplinary foundation for de
