Affective Responses to Barbell-Based Resistance Training in a 16-Week Barbell-Based Strength Training Program for Recreationally Active Adults

Background: Despite the well-established physical benefits of resistance training (RT), only 31% of U.S. adults meet RT guidelines, with women participating at lower rates. While the physiological aspects of RT are well researched, less is known about the psychological factors, such as affective responses (e.g., enjoyment, energy). This study explored the relationships between self-efficacy, self-determined motivation, affective responses, and adherence in a 16-week barbell-based RT program. Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted with 43 adults (M age = 45.09 ± 10.7, 81.8% female) enrolled in a community-based RT program. Affective responses were measured pre- and post-training, within RT sessions, and over time. Repeated-measures ANOVA and correlational analyses were used to examine relationships between psychological variables, affective responses, and adherence to the program. Results: Participants reported significant improvements in positive affective responses post-training and across the program’s duration. Self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation were positively associated with higher affective responses and greater adherence. Strength exercises elicited more positive affects compared to power exercises, and lifting heavier relative loads was correlated with more favorable emotional outcomes. Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of psychological factors, such as self-efficacy and motivation, in the relationship of affective responses to RT.