Psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation Scale (PALMS) among adults

Abstract Background/objectives Understanding motivation for physical activity (PA) is critical for designing effective interventions. This study aims to translate and culturally adapt the Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation Scale (PALMS) into Arabic (PALMS-Ar) and investigate its Psychometric properties in an Arabic-speaking sample. Methods The PALMS was translated into standard Arabic using forward-backward translation, expert review, and cognitive interviews. A sample of 631 adults completed the PALMS-Ar. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and discriminant validity were used to assess structural and construct validity. Known-group validity was also examined. Internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha), Test-retest reliability intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC 2,1 ) and Spearman (rho), measurement error (SEM and MDC 95 ), and floor/ceiling effects were evaluated. Results EFA with parallel analysis supported an eight-factor structure explaining 75.22% of the variance. The scale showed no significant correlation with SF-12 subscales. Known-group validity was established across demographic and activity-level subgroups. PALMS-Ar demonstrated excellent internal consistency (α = 0.76–0.94) and test-retest reliability (ICC2,1 = 0.71–0.89). Calculated measurement error indices: SEM (1.55–2.29) and MDC 95 (4.29–6.34). No floor effects were observed, but ceiling effects surpassed the acceptable threshold in the Physical Condition (30.1%) and Appearance (20.3%) subscales. Conclusion The PALMS-Ar is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing PA motivation among Arabic-speaking adults. It fills a critical measurement gap and is suitable for research and clinical settings.