The reinforcing value and liking of resistance training and aerobic exercise as predictors of adult's physical activity

Objective Reinforcing value (motivating value) is a stronger predictor than hedonic value (liking) for engaging in drug use, gambling, and eating. The associations of reinforcing value and liking with physical activity of adults have not yet been studied and may depend on the modes of exercise (e.g., aerobic/cardiovascular exercise, resistance training) under consideration. The purpose of this study was to test associations of the reinforcing value and liking of aerobic exercise training (AT) and resistance exercise training (RT) modes of exercise with usual participation in aerobic and resistance exercise in adults. Methods Men (n = 38) and women (n = 50) were measured for their liking and relative reinforcing value (RRV) of AT and RT, for their usual vigorous physical activity (VPA) participation, and for usual resistance exercise behavior (Yale physical activity questionnaire). Results The RRV of AT (RRVAT) and liking of AT were correlated, (r = 0.22, p < 0.04), as were the RRV of RT (RRVRT) and liking of RT (r = 0.42, p ˂ 0.01). The reinforcing value for, but not the liking of, a mode of exercise predicted how much an individual engaged in that mode of exercise. RRVAT (p ˂ 0.01) was positively associated with usual VPA. RRVRT (p ˂ 0.01) was positively associated with RT behavior. The hedonic value of AT and of RT were not associated (p > 0.30) with VPA or RT behavior. Conclusion Reinforcing value of a mode of exercise is a stronger predictor than the liking of that mode of exercise for usual amount of participation in the exercise.