Socio-Demographic and Health Profiles of Midlife Women Practicing the 3D Movement Method: A Cross-Sectional Survey Interpreted Through Self-Determination Theory

Background: Physical activity is a key non-pharmacological strategy during the menopausal transition. The 3D Movement Method is a remote, multiplanar practice combining verbal guidance and mindful attention. Objective: To characterize socio-demographic, health, and activity profiles of midlife women practicing the method and to interpret engagement through Self-Determination Theory (SDT). Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional online survey (April–June 2025) included women aged ≥35 years (N = 330). Measures covered socio-demographics, menopausal status, physical activity history and frequency, perceived progress across five functional domains, and standardized scales: 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Analyses were descriptive with cross-tabulations and exploratory regressions for SF-36 summaries. Results: Participants were largely highly educated, employed, globally distributed, and mostly peri- or postmenopausal, with moderate symptom intensity. Practice frequency was high: 34.5% practiced daily and 40.6% 3–6 times per week; 81.5% rated exercise importance as 10/10. Perceived progress was positive, highest for mobility (M = 1.42 on a 0–2 scale). SF-36 indicated above-average physical status (PCS = 54.48) and comparatively lower mental status (MCS = 44.95). Mean MAAS was 4.27/6 and mean MSPSS 5.23/7. Conclusions: Interpreted through SDT, engagement patterns suggest support for autonomy (flexible scheduling and adaptation), competence (clear cueing and micro-progressions), and relatedness (mediated community), which may help sustain practice. Key limitations include non-probability sampling of active practitioners and reliance on self-reported data. Longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate the method as a scalable remote health promotion option.