Pumping Iron: The Social Advantages of Weight Training

This study examined the positive exerciser stereotype in weight trainers. Male (n = 135) and female (n = 191) participants read a vignette in which the weight training habits of the male target were manipulated. Participants then rated the target on a series of personality and physical attributes. Analyses were conducted separately for both males and females. A main effect of target type emerged (p < .001) across gender on both personality and physical attributes, which was not moderated by impression motivation. The typical and excessive weight training targets were perceived more favorably in comparison to the nonweight training and control targets, suggesting that the weight trainer stereotype for men does exist and can vary according to the gender of the observer.