Laura M. Pelino1, Ryan M. Weatherwax2, Lance C. Dalleck1. Effectiveness of the ACE RRAMPTM Approach at Creating a Welcoming Group Exercise Environment. 1High Altitude Exercise Physiology Program, Western Colorado University, Gunnison, CO, USA. 2Department of Health and Exercise Science, Southern Oregon University, Ashland, OR, USA.
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to quantify the effectiveness of the American Council on Exercise (ACE) RRAMPTM Approach in terms of exercise adherence, commitment to exercise, and perceived motivational climate. Methods: 20 participants (18 to 63 years of age) were recruited to participate in this study. The CON group (n=9) and the RRAMP group (n=11) both completed a 6-week group fitness class. The RRAMP group had elements of the RRAMP Approach (respect, recognition, alignment, mistakes, participant) implemented in every class while the CON group acted as controls. These group fitness classes were 3 days/wk for 6 weeks consisting of moderate to vigorous intensity exercises. Throughout the study participants completed questionnaires measuring commitment to exercise and perceived motivational climate (PMCEQ). Results: There was a statistically significant (p<0.05) difference in adherence between the RRAMP (79.7%) and CON (56.2%) groups. A Chi-square test for independence indicated a significant association between intervention group (RRAMP: 90.2% vs. CON: 56.5% maintenance/improvement) and perceived motivational climate, χ2 (1, n = 240) = 38.76, p < 0.05, phi = 0.402. A Chi-square test for independence indicated a significant association between intervention group (RRAMP: 81.8% vs. CON: 47.2% maintenance/improvement) and commitment to exercise, χ2 (1, n = 80) = 12.26, p < 0.05, phi = 0.392. Conclusions: The present study provides promising evidence supporting the effectiveness of the ACE RRAMP Approach at creating a welcoming group exercise environment.