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Women's anxiety about social and exercise settings
Vicki R Walton1, Mel E Finkenberg
1Stephen F. Austin State University, USA.
Perceptual and Motor Skills
|May 25, 2002
Summary
New research found no significant differences in social physique anxiety between women exercising at all-female versus coeducational fitness facilities. Facility member demographics, however, influenced women's choices.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Exercise Science
- Sociology
Background:
- Social physique anxiety is a concern for many individuals in fitness settings.
- Understanding factors influencing facility choice is important for the fitness industry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare social physique anxiety levels in women exercising at single-sex versus coeducational fitness facilities.
- To investigate the influence of facility member demographics on facility choice.
Main Methods:
- A modified Social Physique Anxiety Scale was administered to assess anxiety levels.
- Participants included 28 women new to all-female facilities and 43 women new to coeducational facilities.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in social physique anxiety were found between the two groups of women.
- Women choosing all-female facilities showed greater influence from the sex of members when making their decision.
Conclusions:
- Facility type (all-female vs. coeducational) does not appear to significantly impact social physique anxiety for new female members.
- The perceived gender composition of a facility's membership plays a role in women's facility selection.