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Effects of exercise interventions on body image: a meta-analysis
Anna Campbell1, Heather A Hausenblas
1University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
Journal of Health Psychology
|August 19, 2009
Summary
This meta-analysis found exercise interventions significantly improved body image. Factors like participant age and exercise frequency influenced these positive effects on body perception.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Exercise Science
- Health Behavior
Background:
- Body image is a significant aspect of psychological well-being.
- Exercise is increasingly recognized for its potential mental health benefits.
- Understanding factors influencing exercise's impact on body image is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To meta-analyze the effects of exercise interventions on body image.
- To identify participant, intervention, and design characteristics associated with greater body image improvements.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of 57 relevant studies.
- Inclusion of interventions with pre- and post-data for exercise and control groups.
- Analysis of moderating factors including participant age, publication year, exercise frequency, and specificity.
Main Results:
- Exercise interventions demonstrated a small but significant positive effect on body image compared to control conditions.
- Participant age, year of publication, exercise frequency, and exercise specificity were identified as significant moderators of effect size.
- Heterogeneity in effect sizes was observed across studies.
Conclusions:
- Exercise interventions can positively impact body image.
- Specific intervention and participant characteristics enhance these effects.
- Further research into the mechanisms and optimal exercise 'dose' for body image enhancement is warranted.
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