The study
Pretending to study new training software for bicycles, TUM researchers invited 96 participants to take part in a test ride on the ergometer for 20 minutes in the sports science laboratories. Basis for the manipulation were two different labels of the exercise bout: While a poster with the slogan „fat-burn training“ was installed for half of the participants, the second half of the participants viewed a poster labeled „endurance training“ while exercising. Heart rate monitors ensured that both groups cycled at the same intensity. The participants had to fill out a questionnaire after the exercise bout that included several parameters such as motivation to exercise. While answering the questions they could drink something and help themselves with a savory snack. By means of a scale, the scientists unnoticed registered the amount each individual consumed after his or her exercise bout.
The results
Labeling an exercise bout made participants draw conclusions about the main energy provider of their training. Participants in the fat-burn training condition thought to have burned more fat than carbohydrates, while the label endurance training made participants believe the opposite. In both experimental conditions, the post-exercise energy balance was positive: Irrespective of the label of the exercise bout, participants consumed more energy than they had actually burned before. Significant interaction effects occurred between the fat-burn (vs. endurance) training condition and the motivation of the participants. The lower internal motivation to exercise in the fat-burn training condition, the more participants consumed right after the training. Also, individuals with high psychological distress, high fatigue levels, and low positive well-being when exercising consumed more food in the fat-burn (vs. endurance) training condition.
Implications
Based on the results, we can suggest that a less connoted name than fat-burn training can reduce the post-exercise calorie intake in self-imposed exercisers. Skilled employees in the sport and health business can react accordingly: For example, exercising cannot only be suggested when talking about reducing weight. Instead, one may stress the supporting effects of sports on the health of bones or the posture. Sharper body awareness then enables athletes to interpret the physiological body signals when exercising much easier. Also, less advice will be necessary when individuals choose sports that make the most fun for them.
Contact
Department of Sport & Health Management
Prof. Dr. Jörg Königstorfer
Secretary: Mirjam Eggers
Uptown München Campus D
Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60/62
80992 Munich
Phone: +49.89.289.24559
Fax +49.89.289.24642