Longitudinal examination of the exercise and self-esteem model in middle-aged women

J Sport Exerc Psychol. 2010 Dec;32(6):862-80. doi: 10.1123/jsep.32.6.862.

Abstract

This 2-year prospective study examined the exercise and self-esteem model in middle-aged women (N = 143) previously enrolled in a randomized controlled exercise trial. Across the 2-year period, increases in physical activity (PA) and self-efficacy and reductions in body mass index (BMI) were associated with improved subdomain self-perceptions relative to physical condition, and reductions in BMI were associated with improved subdomain self-perceptions relative to physical condition and body attractiveness. The effects of PA, self-efficacy, and BMI on changes in physical self-worth and global self-esteem were mediated by changes in self-perceptions relative to physical condition and body attractiveness. The results of this longitudinal analysis support the hierarchical and multidimensional structure of self-esteem and indicate that middle-aged women can enhance how they perceive their condition and body attractiveness by continued participation in physical activity, increasing their self-efficacy, and maintaining healthy BMI levels.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Body Image
  • Body Mass Index
  • Exercise / physiology
  • Exercise / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Psychological*
  • Motor Activity / physiology
  • Prospective Studies
  • Self Concept*
  • Self Efficacy