The Effect of Exercise Imagery on Perceived Exertion, Energy Consumption

Introduction & The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of exercise imagery on the perceived exertion and energy consumption. The current study was a quasi-experimental with four experimental groups as well as one control group. The statistical population was included by all students of University of Tehran. Data were collected in accessible form from 50 students. The participants were divided into imagery groups (associative enjoyment imagery, associative energetic imagery, dissociative enjoyment imagery and dissociative energetic imagery) and a control group. Instruments used in this study included demographic questionnaire, the Borg scale of perceived exertion, imagery texts, Treadmill, and heart rate monitors (polar). Data were analyzed using repeated measure of analysis of variance and subsequently by Bonferoni post hoc test. The results showed that the effect of exercise imagery on pressure perception was significant. All the imagery groups were less aware of the perceived exertion than the control group. But the Bonferonri test showed that there was no significant difference between the imagery groups. In addition, it was found that imaging does not have a significant effect on the energy consumption of individuals. In general, the findings emphasize the role of exercise imagery during exercise as a factor in reducing fatigue and enjoying more of physical activity. Therefore, exercise imagery during exercise has an effective role in reducing fatigue and enjoying physical activity as much as possible.