The Image of Group Fitness Instructors: An Intra- and Inter-Country Comparison Between Portugal and Romania

  • 0Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad, 2-4, Elena Dragoi, 310330 Arad, Romania.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Romanian fitness participants and instructors value instructor image more than Portuguese counterparts. Cultural context significantly impacts perceptions of instructor attributes like physical fitness and communication, influencing service quality.

Area Of Science

  • Sports Science
  • Cultural Studies
  • Service Quality Management

Background

  • Fitness instructors' image, encompassing appearance, hygiene, and attire, is vital for service quality and participant satisfaction.
  • Interpersonal and technical skills are crucial for effective fitness instruction.
  • Cultural perceptions can influence the importance placed on various instructor attributes.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To compare perceptions of fitness instructor image between Romania and Portugal within group fitness classes.
  • To analyze how cultural differences affect the evaluation of instructor attributes.
  • To identify key factors influencing participant satisfaction and service quality.

Main Methods

  • Comparative analysis involving 133 fitness instructors and 210 participants from Romania and Portugal.
  • Utilized an adapted Szumilewicz questionnaire to assess the importance of instructor image attributes.
  • Employed descriptive statistics, t-tests, and effect size for data analysis.

Main Results

  • Romanian instructors and participants placed greater importance on the fitness instructor's image compared to Portuguese groups.
  • Significant cross-cultural differences were observed in the perceived importance of physical fitness, technical execution, and communication skills.
  • Instructors tended to overestimate the importance of their image relative to participant perceptions.

Conclusions

  • The fitness instructor's image is a critical determinant of participant satisfaction and perceived service quality.
  • Cultural context significantly shapes the perception and valuation of fitness instructor attributes.
  • Fitness professionals should adopt a culturally sensitive approach, balancing technical expertise with interpersonal skills to meet participant expectations and enhance service quality.

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