International Journal of Economics and Management Sciences
Vol. 3 No. 2 (2026): May : International Journal of Economics and Management Sciences

The Role of Word of Mouth, Peers, and Promotion on the Decision to Exercise at Gymnasiums in Bandar Lampung City with Hedonic Motivation as a Mediating Variable

Utami Pratiwi (Unknown)
Lestari Wuryanti (Unknown)
Ayu Nursari (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study examines the effects of word of mouth, peer influence, and promotion on exercise decisions at gymnasiums in Bandar Lampung City, with hedonic motivation as a mediating variable. Drawing on the Theory of Planned Behavior and consumer behavior perspectives, the research employed a quantitative causal-associative design. Data were collected through structured questionnaires from 100 active members of four gymnasiums and analyzed using Partial Least Squares - Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS . The results indicate that word of mouth, peer influence, and promotion have positive and significant effects on hedonic motivation and on exercise decisions. Hedonic motivation also exerts a positive and significant effect on exercise decisions, suggesting that pleasurable and emotionally rewarding fitness experiences reinforce consumers' intention to engage in regular gym- based exercise. Mediation analysis further reveals that hedonic motivation significantly channels the effects of peer influence and promotion on exercise decisions, while the indirect effect of word of mouth is also significant, although its negative coefficient warrants careful interpretation. These findings demonstrate that exercise decisions are shaped not only by utilitarian health considerations but also by social influence, promotional exposure, and affective consumption experiences. The study provides practical insights for gym managers in designing service and marketing strategies that strengthen customer engagement and sustained participation.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJEMS

Publisher

Subject

Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Social Sciences

Description

Topics in this journal relate to any aspect of management, but are not limited to the following topics: Human Resource Management, Financial Management, Marketing Management, Public Sector Management, Operational Management, Supply Chain Management, Corporate Governance, Business Ethics, Management ...