Self-selected intensity, repetitions, RPE and adherence of novice female weight lifters during 6-weeks of resistance training.

The purpose of this investigation was to determine what intensity novice female individuals would choose when allowed to self-select intensity when beginning a strength training program, the influence of efficacy beliefs and adherence. Fifty-three participants were randomly assigned to four groups based on weight type and instruction type and asked to record their self-selected intensities, repetitions and RPE in a public exercise facility for six-weeks. Results showed that the majority of participants exercised at an intensity that met commonly suggested guidelines (greater than or equal to 60% 1-RM) and that intensity did not differ between groups that received different instructions, although the potential for a one-repetition peak is discussed. Program attendance was not moderated by efficacy ratings. Lastly, significant correlations (at the 0.05 level) revealed that those with higher ratings of self-efficacy demonstrated greater adherence, while no significant correlation was found between the initial intensity chosen by individual participants and adherence.