Core self-evaluation as a predictor of strength training adoption in older adults.
OBJECTIVE
Progressive resistance training (PRT) counteracts sarcopenia and has been demonstrated to improve physical function and quality of life in older adults. Despite the clear benefits of PRT, participation remains low. The core self-evaluation (CSE) construct is theoretically antecedent to four personality traits: locus of control, self-esteem, neuroticism (emotional stability), and generalized self-efficacy. We have examined the association of CSE with exercise adoption among older adults invited to participate in a PRT trial. We hypothesized that CSE would positively predict adoption of PRT.


METHODS
All residents of two retirement communities were invited to complete questionnaires with items on demographics, physical activity, CSE, and general health. Following completion of questionnaires, residents were invited to take part in an on-site, 10-week randomized controlled trial of a PRT-based exercise trial.


RESULTS
Thirty-eight of 358 residents (63.2% women; 76.6±6.1 year; range 58-92) enrolled and 118 residents completed the questionnaires. Multiple regression analysis predicting PRT adoption indicated that the demographic variables accounted for 38% of the variance. Inclusion of CSE (β=.405) accounted for an additional 10% of the variance in PRT adoption.


CONCLUSIONS
CSE was predictive of PRT adoption in this cohort, adding significantly to the predictive efficacy of known demographic predictors. This is the first study to show that CSE may influence adoption of PRT in any cohort.
Exercise, Health and Performance Research Group, The University of Sydney, Lidcombe 2141, Australia. michael.baker@sydney.edu.au
Michael K
MK
Baker
David J
DJ
Kennedy
Philip L
PL
Bohle
Deena
D
Campbell
James H
JH
Wiltshire
Maria A Fiatarone
MA
Singh
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology*; D018579:Patient Selection; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012044:Regression Analysis; D055070:Resistance Training; D055948:Sarcopenia / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D012649:Self Concept; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires