title: Strength Training Improves Body Image and Physical Activity Behaviors Among Midlife and Older Rural Women.
abstract: The effect of strength training on body image is understudied. The Strong Women Program, a 10-week, twice weekly strength-training program, was provided by Extension agents to 341 older rural women (62±12 years); changes in body image and other psychosocial variables were evaluated. Paired-sample t-test analyses were conducted to assess mean differences pre- to post-program. Strength training was associated with significant improvements in several dimensions of body image, health-related quality of life, and physical activity behaviors, satisfaction, and comfort among rural aging women-an often underserved population that stands to benefit considerably from similar programs.
authors.affiliation: Assistant Professor, Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Division of Nutritional Sciences, Ithaca, New York.
authors.forename: Rebecca A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Seguin
authors.affiliation: Research Associate, Montana State University, Department of Health and Human Development, Bozeman, Montana.
authors.forename: Galen
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Eldridge
authors.affiliation: Professor of Psychology, Montana State University, Department of Psychology, Bozeman, Montana.
authors.forename: Wesley
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Lynch
authors.affiliation: Professor, Extension Food and Nutrition Specialist, Montana State University, MSU Extension Service, Bozeman, Montana.
authors.forename: Lynn C
authors.initials: LC
authors.lastname: Paul