Objective: This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of a combined Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) intervention, the ”Running Minds” program, in promoting physical activity (PA) among young adults. Methods: The intervention, consisting of eight sessions, targeted motivational and psychological barriers to PA. It intertwined SDT’s core components (autonomy, competence, relatedness) with ACT’s emphasis on mindfulness and value-driven actions. This study used a qualitative approach, collecting data through semi-structured interviews with twelve participants aged 20–35, conducted post-intervention. Results: Our reflexive thematic analysis of the interviews revealed five key themes: alignment with personal values, rewarding experience of the sessions, fulfillment of social connectedness, enhancement of both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and observable behavioral changes. These findings highlight the importance of aligning exercise with personal values and the role of supportive social environments in sustaining PA. Conclusions: The integration of SDT and ACT in the “Running Minds” program appears to be a viable approach for enhancing motivation and adherence to PA among young adults. This study offers valuable insights for future PA interventions, underscoring the need for strategies that consider psychological and social dimensions. Limitations and Future Research: Despite the promising results, limitations include potential recall bias and the short duration of the study. Further research, especially focusing on more diverse groups and employing longitudinal designs, is recommended to broaden and substantiate these findings.

This paper introduces a pioneering intervention program based mainly on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, designed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by sports coaches. In order to provide a more comprehensive intervention that bolsters coaches’ intra- and interpersonal skills, principles from Self-Determination Theory have been integrated as a complementary framework. The program was nationally implemented across 32 youth basketball clubs, engaging 172 coaches. These coaches participated in a four-session series, focusing on diverse facets including value exploration, awareness of behavioral functions (“choice point”), self-regulation techniques, and strategies to meet athletes’ basic psychological needs. Out of these, 108 coaches from 26 participating clubs filled out the online feedback form at the end of the intervention, highlighting their experiences, benefits, and areas of improvement within the program. Coaches’ feedback indicated that the program furnished an effective framework for sports coaching, suggesting enhancements in coaches’ abilities to navigate their challenges. Practical recommendations have been administered based on the coaches’ feedback.