Resistance training among active women: motivations, barriers, and its role in self-esteem and body satisfaction

Abstract

Jessica Vaz Velho Sebastião de Melo*, Nuno Miguel Prazeres Batalha and Gabriela Sousa Neves de Almeida

Resistance training (RT) has been increasingly recognized as a relevant health behavior among women, with potential benefits extending beyond physical health to psychological well-being. However, adherence to RT remains influenced by multiple individual and contextual factors. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine RT adherence among physically active women, focusing on motivational and perceived barriers, as well as exploring associations with self-esteem and body satisfaction. A total of 240 physically active women (30.69 ± 8.87 years) answered a questionnaire about training habits, motivations and barriers associated with adherence to the RT. They also completed the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and the Silhouette Rating Scale. Most participants (80.8%) reported engaging in RT. Women who are single and without minor or dependent children engage in RT more frequently than those with a partner and children. Improving physical fitness and health (physical and mental) are the main motivations for the practice of RT, and lack of commitment and motivation are the main barriers. No statistically significant differences were found between RT practitioners and non-practitioners in self-esteem or body satisfaction. However, women with longer RT experience (≥1 year) reported greater body satisfaction, and practitioners tended to perceive their bodies more positively. These findings highlight the role of psychological and contextual factors in RT adherence among women and suggest that sustained engagement in RT may be associated with more positive body perception over time.