Enjoyment perception during exercise with aerobic machines

Abstract

This study investigated enjoyment and naturalness of movement perceived during short bouts of exercise with three aerobic machines: treadmill, elliptical crosstrainer, and Vario. The participants were 72 experienced and 60 inexperienced users. Immediately after the exercise with each machine, they fi lled in a 12-item form of the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES) and a Visual Analogue Scales (VAS) about naturalness of movement. Results showed signifi cant within-subjects diff erences on all scales; exercise with the treadmill and Vario were perceived to be similarly enjoyable and more enjoyable and natural in comparison with the elliptical crosstrainer. Diff erences in naturalness ratings between experienced and inexperienced users were observed. Exercise was not equally enjoyable when performed with diff erent aerobic machines, and this should be considered by professionals when prescribing aerobic training to enhance motivation and adherence. © Perceptual & Motor Skills 2014.