Self-perception and physical fitness.

Abstract

Research examining the relationship between self-concept and physical fitness has been sparse. However, the literature suggests a positive relationship between self-attitude and physical fitness (1, 2, 3, 4 ) . In contrast with prior research where physical fitness was determined by actual physical performance and physiological measures, the present pilot study assessed the relationship between perceived and actual physical fitness and selfconcept reported by 11 male and 22 female freshmen. Due to class withdrawal or incomplete data, results are based upon 15 students. All subjects were pretested on a self-rating scale of perceived physical fitness ( 3 ) and indicated their current perceived physical condition. Test-retest reliability was .76. Actual physical performance was determined by the number of laps completed during a 12-min. run. Self-concept was assessed via a 44item semantic differential rating scale for which test-retest reliability was .82 while internal consistency was .96. Supervised aerobic training (jogging) was conducted at least twice a week for a minimum of 30 min. After the 10-wk. training session, posttest measures were made. A treatment by subjects design using multiple regression analysis was developed to analyze mean differences for preand posttest self-concept, perceived physical fitness, and actual physical performance. A significant difference in self-concept was not observed (M = 241.13, SD = 27.06 vs M = 247.20, SD = 26.50) although the difference was in the predicted directioo ( p = .16). The failure to obtain a statistically significant increase in self-concept was unexpected as other investigators (1, 2) have found self-concept significantly increased with physical training. Lack of significance might be attributed to the restricted sample size or assessment. While perceived physical fitness did not significantly increase ( p = .30) following aerobic training (M = 6.27, SD = 1.44 vs M = 6.53, SD = 1.30) actual physical performance did (M = 1.46, SD = .33 vs M = 1.54, SD = .26, p < .05). As research on perceived fitness is nonexistent, the findings could not be corroborated. Additional examination incorporating a more rigorous physical training schedule is recommended. It was hypothesized, although not substantiated, that perceived physical fitness would accompany an increase in actual physical performance. A moderate but significant correlation ( 9 < .05) obtained between actual and perceived physical performance on both preand posttest measures ( r = .50 and .52, respectively), suggesting the stability and validity of self-report measures of physical fitness. However, cross-validation is needed. Perceived physical fitness and self-concept were also significantly correlated on preand posttests, .53 and 3 7 , corroborating the research of Leonardson ( 4 ) . In contrast, actual physical performance and self-concept were not significantly correlated ( r = .Dl). It appears that perceived physical fitness is a viable aspect of self-concept worthy of study.