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Verbal messages strengthen bench press efficacy
James B Wise1, Amy E Posner, Gretchen L Walker
1Department of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Services, Minnesota State University, Mankato, Minnesota 56001, USA. james.wise@mnsu.edu
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|February 20, 2004
Summary
Verbal messages from strength professionals enhance women's confidence in bench pressing. Specific feedback and highlighting qualifications are key to improving lifting efficacy for novice women.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Science
- Sport Psychology
Background:
- Bench press efficacy, or confidence in lifting progressively heavier weights, is crucial for training adherence and performance.
- Novice women may benefit from specific psychological interventions to improve their strength training self-efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of different verbal messages on bench press efficacy in women.
- To determine the effectiveness of specific performance feedback versus general information in enhancing self-efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-two women with no recent bench press experience were divided into two groups.
- Both groups received verbal messages from a qualified strength professional after an initial bench press efficacy assessment.
- One message provided specific performance feedback; the other offered general information.
Main Results:
- Both types of verbal messages significantly increased bench press efficacy.
- The study suggests that specific feedback may be particularly impactful, though not explicitly compared as a primary outcome.
Conclusions:
- Strength professionals should leverage their qualifications when communicating with novice female lifters.
- Providing specific performance feedback and expressing belief in the lifter's capabilities are recommended strategies to bolster confidence and efficacy.