words of wisdom by Anne Simon B.Sc (Hon’s)

I am delighted to report that, having had a reality check (see last newsletter), I have remained on track and have now lost 20 pounds, but possibly more importantly healthwise and aesthetically more than 26 cms! This has started me thinking about the improvements I have been experiencing and leads me to write this newsletter article.

As a fitness professional we are encouraged to take base line measures when we start working with a client so that we can track their progress, taking anthropometric measures such as weight, waist/hip ratio, body fat etc but have you ever considered also taking psychological measures? An increase in Self-esteem is commonly linked with positive behaviour change. Self-esteem is defined as “confidence in one’s own worth and abilities”.  Self-esteem is a global term that reflects an individuals overall emotional evaluation of their own self-worth. There are many contributing factors to global self-esteem, one of the most important for us to consider as fitness professionals is Physical Self-Concept. Physical self-concept can be measured using Fox and Corbin”s 1989 Physical Self-Perception Profile (PSPP) to assess an individual on the following:

Perceived body attractiveness – perceived attractiveness of figure or physique, ability to maintain an attractive body, and confidence in appearance

Physical competence – perceptions of sport and athletic ability, ability to learn sport skills, and confidence in the sport environment

Physical strength – perceived strength, muscle development, and confidence in situations requiring strength

Physical conditioning –  perceptions of physical condition, stamina, and fitness; ability to maintain exercise; and confidence in the exercise and fitness setting

Physical self-worth – general feelings of happiness, satisfaction, pride, respect, and confidence in the physical self

One of the problems regarding using the PSPP is that the questions are quite complex making it not particularly user-friendly. Another questionnaire has been developed called the Physical Self-Description Questionnaire (PSDQ). This questionnaire is simpler and shorter making it easier to use. It combines measures of global self-esteem and physical self-concept.

It is safe to assume that if a person’s perceptions of their physical-self improve then they are more likely to continue with those behaviours that have earned them those improvements, creating a cycle of exercise adherence and improved perception of physical-self. Research has shown that individuals who enjoyed a high level of positive physical self-concept are likely to feel good about exercising in the presence of other people. Could this be one of the reasons why “beginners”  start off isolating themselves, standing at the back of a class where no-one will see them and then become more integrated or start off on their own in the gym before going to boot-camp sessions?

Self-esteem tops the list of needs that make people happy, and I have to say that I am happier now. My son asked me the other day why was I wearing my ‘nice’ clothes to work? Simple answer “because I can!”

If you”d asked me if my self-esteem had increased my honest answer would have been no but had I completed either of these questionnaires at the beginning and again at this point I think an improvement would definitely be visible. Shouldn’t we consider using one of these as part of our initial client consultations to show the psychological benefit of exercise and well as the health and physical fitness benefits?

Why don’t you consider learning more about this area of work and joining us on the CYQ Level 4 Weight Management Course.  Drummond were not only influential in designing this course, but also the first in the world to be approved by CYQ to deliver it.  Places are limited so book early and give yourself plenty of time for the pre-reading, it is Level 4.