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Physical activity, self-efficacy, and perceived exertion among adolescents
Lorraine B Robbins1, Nola J Pender, David L Ronis
1School of Nursing, University of Michigan, 400 North Ingalls, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
Research in Nursing & Health
|October 30, 2004
Summary
Physical activity self-efficacy influences perceived exertion in adolescents. Lower exertion boosts confidence, encouraging future engagement in physical activity (PA).
Area of Science:
- Exercise Science
- Developmental Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Self-efficacy, or confidence in physical activity (PA) skills, is crucial for sustained engagement.
- Perceived exertion significantly impacts an individual's motivation to continue or cease physical activity.
- Understanding these relationships is vital for designing effective youth health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the relationship between self-efficacy and perceived exertion in adolescents.
- To investigate potential gender differences in this relationship.
- To inform strategies for promoting lifelong physical activity.
Main Methods:
- 168 African American and European American youth (9-17 years) completed a 20-minute treadmill walk/run at 60% peak VO2.
- Participants provided perceived exertion ratings every 4 minutes.
- Pre- and post-activity self-efficacy measures were collected.
Main Results:
- Pre-activity self-efficacy predicted perceived exertion in boys but not girls.
- Girls exhibited lower pre-activity self-efficacy and reported higher perceived exertion than boys.
- Lower perceived exertion during activity correlated with higher post-activity self-efficacy for both genders.
Conclusions:
- Perceived exertion during physical activity is a key factor influencing adolescent self-efficacy.
- Interventions aimed at reducing perceived exertion may enhance self-efficacy and promote PA.
- Addressing gender-specific differences in self-efficacy and exertion is important for PA promotion.