LE3 .A278 2009

2009

Shields, Chris

Acadia University

Bachelor of Kinesiology

Honours

Kinesiology

Kinesiology

Purpose: To examine the influence of proxy interaction style on the social-cognitions and efficacy perceptions of exercise class participants. Methods: The sample population consisted of 14 healthy yet sedentary participants (Mage = 30.1 years) recruited from the communities surrounding two Canadian universities. Participants were randomly assigned to either a proscriptive or collaborative exercise class setting of a 6-week long light resistance class and educational sessions. In order to test the variables in question, participants were given a set of measures to fill out at day 2 and day 6 of the study, which required them to comment on such things as their confidence in their instructor (proxy-efficacy), the confidence in their abilities (self-efficacy), enjoyment of the exercise, RISE beliefs, etc. Results: A significant main effect for time was found for all efficacy-related perceptions (p=0.01) and exercise related social cognitions (p=0.04). There was also a significant group by time interaction found in the collaborative condition for RISE beliefs (p=0.025). While the RISE beliefs of the prescriptive group remained largely unchanged over time (MPresc1= 84.83, MPresc2 = 83.78), the RISE beliefs in the collaborative group increased over the course of the intervention (MCol1 = 71.20, MCol2 = 83.80). Conclusion: The current results suggest that overall, an exercise and educational session is a positive outcome for novice exercisers regardless of the leadership style adopted. Also, a more collaborative approach seems to foster RISE beliefs in the novice exerciser which, according to previous literature, could increase self efficacy, relationship satisfaction, coping efforts, skill development and effort expended in an activity.

The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:599