Older Adults' Perceived Changes in Physical Self-Worth Associated With Resistance Training

Using Sonstroem, Harlow, and Josephs' (1994) expanded version of the Exercise and Self-Esteem Model (EXSEM; Sonstroem & Morgan, 1989), we explored how 9 older adults (6 women and 3 men aged 65-72 years) involved in resistance training program experienced and perceived change in physical self-worth (i.e., improved strength, functional competency, physical condition, and body satisfaction). We conducted. three in-depth interviews with each participant over the course of the program. In individual log books participants recorded the weight lifted and the number of repetitions for each exercise. Our findings showed the course of changes in physical self-perceptions in these older adults and how actual individual changes in strength performance related. to perceived changes in important phychological outcomes.