Viewing television shows containing ideal and neutral body images while exercising: does type of body image content influence exercise performance and body image in women?

J Health Psychol. 2011 Sep;16(6):938-46. doi: 10.1177/1359105310396394. Epub 2011 Mar 25.

Abstract

This study examined how exposure to media containing different body image content while exercising influenced exercise performance and feelings concerning appearance. 41 females completed two sessions of cycling (30 minutes). During exercise, participants viewed a television show that contained either media-portrayed ideal or neutral female body images. There were no differences in exercise performance between conditions. Physical appearance state anxiety (PASA) decreased post-exercise. After viewing ideal bodies, participants scored higher on appearance and comparison processing. The high internalization group scored higher on appearance and comparison processing and PASA increased following ideal body image content while the low internalization group decreased.

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety / etiology
  • Anxiety / psychology
  • Attitude to Health
  • Body Image*
  • Exercise / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Psychological Tests
  • Television*
  • Young Adult