Motivational characteristics and resistance training in older adults : A randomized controlled trial and 1-year follow-up

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a 9‐month supervised resistance training intervention on motivational and volitional characteristics related to exercise, and whether the absolute level and/or intervention‐induced change in these characteristics predict self‐directed continuation of resistance training 1 year after the intervention. Community dwelling older adults aged 65‐75, who did not fulfill physical activity recommendations, were randomized into resistance training intervention groups: training once‐ (n = 26), twice‐ (n = 27), three‐times‐a‐week (n = 28) or non‐training control group (n = 25). Training groups participated in supervised resistance training for 9 months: during months 1‐3 all groups trained twice‐a‐week and then with allocated frequencies during months 4‐9. Exercise‐related motivation, self‐efficacy, and planning were measured with questionnaires at baseline, month‐3 and month‐9. The continuance of resistance training was determined by interviews 6 and 12 months after the end of the intervention. The intervention improved action and coping planning as well as intrinsic motivation (group × time P < .05). During 1‐year follow‐up, 54% of participants did not continue self‐directed regular resistance training, 22% continued regular resistance training once‐a‐week, and 24% twice‐a‐week. Increases in exercise self‐efficacy and intrinsic motivation related to training during the intervention predicted continuation of resistance training twice‐a‐week. Resistance training improved exercise‐related motivational and volitional characteristics in older adults. These improvements were linked to continuing resistance training 1 year after the supervised intervention. The role of these characteristics should be taken into account when promoting long‐term resistance training participation among older adults.