Body Shape Satisfaction in Female Exercisers and Nonexercisers

Abstract

Twenty-eight high frequency exercisers, twenty-six moderate frequency exercisers, and twenty nonexercisers were recruited to examine the relationship between exercise and body shape satisfaction in women. All subjects were within average body weight and body fat percentage, and those subjects who reported the clinical features of anorexia nervosa and/or bulimia nervosa were not included in the data analysis. Results showed that the high frequency exercisers had a significantly more negative view of their body shape than a group of moderate exercisers and nonexercisers. In addition, high frequency exercisers were more likely to continue to exercise even when feeling ill than were moderate exercisers. Group differences between moderate and high frequency exercisers were not found for exercising while injured. Differences in exercise attitudes and habits of the two groups are discussed in addition to their reasons for exercising.