Research on Resistance Training for University Students Focusing on the Maintenance and Improvement of Motivation through Psychological Support

Abstract

This research focused on resistance training, which has psychological and physical benefits such as improvement of self-efficacy and forming bulk in our body. However, some research showed people cannot keep up with resistance training on a regular basis. Also, admission to university leads to varying students' lifestyles, such as a decrease in exercise habits. This research investigated how university students think about resistance training to suggest psychological supports by which they can continue their resistance training. An original questionnaire was used to learn what kind of problems students have with resistance training. Based on the results of survey, cluster analysis was used to form several groups in accordance with their respective problems. As a result, group 1, which showed a negative attitude only toward resistance training, and group 2, which showed a negative attitude toward all exercise, were formed. Group 1 comes under the "preparation period" in the transtheoretical model. Therefore, to continue resistance training, group 1 can maintain highly intrinsic motivation by comparing each sport with resistance training. Group 2 comes under the "indifference period" in the transtheoretical model. Accordingly, to be aware of the importance of resistance training, group 2 should be provided with clear information about it.