Affective Responses To Resistance Exercise Performed At Self-selected And Imposed Loads In Trained Women.

Abstract

There is mounting evidence that acute aerobic exercise performed at a self-selected (SS) intensity is rated as being more pleasant and subsequently fosters greater motivation for regular exercise participation when compared to imposed-intensity exercise. However, no research to date has directly addressed either of these contentions with resistance exercise (RE). PURPOSE: The purpose of this investigation was to examine the affective responses to SS and imposed-load bouts of acute RE. Differences in proxy measures of motivation to participate in SS and imposed-load RE were also examined. METHODS: Twenty-one (M age = 23 years) recreationally-trained women completed acute bouts of RE using loads of 40% of one repetition maximum (1RM), 70% of 1RM, and a self-selected (SS) load. RE consisted of 3 sets of 10 repetitions of 4 different strength training exercises. Global ratings of pleasure were assessed prior to, during, and following each RE condition using the Feeling Scale (FS). Self-efficacy (SE) and intention (INT) for regular participation in RE using 40%1RM, 70%1RM, and SS loads during the next month were also assessed post-exercise. RESULTS: Results of repeated measures ANOVA analyses revealed significant increases in the FS during (p < 0.01) and following (p < 0.01) the 40% and SS Conditions and following (p < 0.01) the 70% 1RM Condition. Conversely, a significant decrease in the FS (p < 0.01) emerged during RE performed at 70% 1RM. Univariate analyses also revealed that the SS condition was associated with the highest ratings of SE and INT for future RE participation (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The present results suggest that SS and imposed load bouts of RE are associated with different trajectories of affective responses during and following exercise. Additionally, despite experiencing similar affective benefits following each bout of RE, women reported greater SE and INT to participate in RE using a SS load. The differences in FS, SE, and INT responses accompanying SS and imposed-load bouts of RE observed in this investigation may have valuable practical implications for RE prescription.