Objectification and Self-Determination in Fitness: A Qualitative Investigation of Women’s Motivations for Physical Exercise

Cara Deininger, Akorede A. Teriba () and Megan Foley-Nicpon
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Cara Deininger: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 1 Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA
Akorede A. Teriba: College of Education and Human Development, University of North Dakota, 231 Centennial Drive, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
Megan Foley-Nicpon: College of Education, University of Iowa, 600 Blank Honors Center, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA

Social Sciences, 2025, vol. 14, issue 11, 1-17

Abstract: This qualitative study explored physically fit women’s physical, psychological, and societal reasons for engaging in exercise through the lenses of objectification theory and self-determination theory. A phenomenological approach enabled an in-depth examination of the complexity of women’s experiences, including the challenges and successes associated with physical exercise. The participants’ narratives ranged from accounts of perseverance in exercising, despite societal expectations and gendered stereotypes, to expressions of a desire to live long, happy, and healthy lives. Eight key themes were identified: initial motivators for physical exercise, benefits of physical exercise, perseverance, definition of a successful workout, gendered barriers to physical fitness, physical fitness identity, cost of physical fitness pursuit, and appearance motives. The findings highlight how physical exercise fosters empowerment and psychological well-being, with benefits such as self-assurance and self-love supporting sustained motivation over time. This study deepens understanding of how women navigate fitness within a broader sociocultural context and illustrates how external motivators can evolve into intrinsic motivation centered on autonomy, competence, and personal well-being.

Keywords: physical exercise; motivation; objectification theory; self-determination theory; psychological health (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A B N P Y80 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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