Effects of music, television, and a combination entertainment system on distraction, exercise adherence, and physical output in adults

Canadian Journal of Behavioural Science, Jul 2001 by James J Annesi

Although every attempt was made to keep the internal validity of this field study high, limitations were still evident. The samples were small, and were drawn from highly motivated, new fitness centre members. The probable upper socioeconomic selfselection of this group may also have impacted the variables in question. Additionally, the investigation was of a relatively short period of time. Longer studies, in which any novelty effect of treatments would be lessened, will be important for extending findings. More lengthened time frames and/or periodic followups will be needed to assess impact on long-term cardiorespiratory health - a primary goal for many new exercisers and preventive medicine concerns.

Although the generalizability of findings of this single study is limited, they cautiously point to possibilities for promoting exercise longevity. Possibly the ability to choose, at any time during exercise, from a large number of television programs, and be in close proximity to viewing screens, are important features that allow the exercise experience to be an increasingly acceptable one. Studies that directly address these variables are needed. As regular cardiovascular exercise becomes increasingly important for the wellness of ever aging populations, methods to improve its palatability, large scale, are in need. Additional studies testing other modalities for their comparative ability to promote exercise success are greatly needed. Exercise and rehabilitation professionals require the information that will lessen the prominent dropout problem, while maximizing client productivity.

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