Aerobic Power, Estimation of Physical Ability, and Attraction to Physical Activity

Abstract

Abstract This investigation consisted of two studies. The purpose of Study 1 was to examine the associations between estimation of physical ability, attraction to physical activity, and aerobic power in young adult males (N = 30) and females (N = 30). The findings were in general agreement with Sonstroem's physical activity model in that estimation of physical ability and actual physical fitness as measured by [Vdot]O2 maximum were significantly correlated (p < .05) for both males (r = .369) and females (r = .326). However, the previously reported association between attraction and fitness was not confirmed; this presumably resulted from the definition of physical fitness as a physiological entity (i.e. peak [Vdot]O2) in the present study as contrasted with performance-based measures of fitness employed in earlier studies. With this in mind, Study 2 was conducted to examine the associations between estimation, attraction, and a performance-based measure of aerobic power — the 12-minute run. A significant ...