Physical self-concept, trait depression and readiness for physical activity of obese patients

Study aim: To assess the physical self-concept, trait depression and readiness for physical activity in relation to the degree of obesity.

Material and methods: Obese (Grade I and II; n = 59) and morbidly obese (Grade III; n = 42) patients aged 30 - 66 years, as well as 83 non-obese college students aged 30 ± 7.3 years were studied. Physical self-concept, trait depression and readiness for physical activity were determined apart from anthropometric measurements including body fat content.

Results: Physical self-concept was inversely associated with the degree of obesity. Morbidly obese (Grade III) who were more satisfied with their body were also more ready for physical activity (r = 0.394; p<0.01). Trait depression and physical self-concept were negatively correlated in both groups.

Conclusion: Body satisfaction may play an important role in the protection against depression and enhance the readiness for physical activity of obese patients.