Self-monitoring of diet and exercise is best suited for which stage of change?

Self-monitoring of diet and exercise is particularly effective during the maintenance stage of change. In this stage, individuals have already made significant lifestyle modifications and are working to sustain the new behaviors over time. Self-monitoring helps reinforce these positive changes by providing feedback on their progress, identifying potential barriers, and promoting accountability.

Additionally, during the maintenance stage, individuals are often more capable of recognizing patterns in their behavior and understanding the importance of consistency in their healthy habits. By tracking their diet and exercise, they can celebrate their successes and remain motivated to continue adhering to their lifestyle changes. This ongoing self-assessment also helps in addressing any lapses that may occur, giving individuals the tools to navigate challenges and maintain their progress over the long term.