Strength Training: An Inquiry of Females Perceptions

Authors

Laura A. Richardson, University of MichiganFollow
Victoria R. Kanel, Logan UniversityFollow
Alexandria L. Rellinger, Walsh UniversityFollow
Susan E. Ramlo, University of AkronFollow
Carrie L. Fister, University of AkronFollow

Abstract

Topics in Exercise Science and Kinesiology Volume 4: Issue 1, Article 10, 2023. While traditionally considered a male-dominated activity, women have increasingly embraced strength training. Although strength training has numerous physical and mental benefits to women, their subjective decision-making about using strength training have not been investigated thoroughly, especially using a unique methodology, Q, that is designed specifically to study subjectivity such as viewpoints and decision-making. There is limited research focused on females’ viewpoints about strength training. Capturing feelings and perceptions females have towards resistance training in an objective manner requires a specialized, mixed method called Q methodology [Q] that was created 90 years ago to scientifically study subjectivity. In Q, participants sort subjective statements about the topic into a grid to offer their internal viewpoints. Statistical analyses group similar sorts and provide empirical evidence to describe divergent viewpoints at a level usually reserved for qualitative studies. In this study, analyses revealed two distinct views: The Equipped Exercisers, who purposefully seek the benefits of exercise, and Road-blockers, who value exercise but implement constraints upon their participation. Understanding these views can facilitate expanding female participation in strength training through interventions.

Repository Citation

Richardson, Laura A.; Kanel, Victoria R.; Rellinger, Alexandria L.; Ramlo, Susan E.; and Fister, Carrie L. (2023) "Strength Training: An Inquiry of Females Perceptions," Topics in Exercise Science and Kinesiology: Vol. 4: Iss. 1, Article 10.
Available at: https://digitalscholarship.unlv.edu/scholarship_kin/vol4/iss1/10