Abstract

ALVES, Susana et al. Analysis of kinesic and proxemic paraverbal communication in fitness instructors using time patterns (T-patterns). CPD [online]. 2015, vol.15, n.1, pp.111-122. ISSN 1989-5879.  https://dx.doi.org/10.4321/S1578-84232015000100011.

The aim of this study was to analyze paraverbal communication and communication patterns in fitness instructors in four disciplines: body step, toning, aqua fitness, and indoor cycling. Using observational methodology, we filmed 12 workout sessions (3 for each discipline) led by twelve expert instructors (all women, with a mean age of 31±6.14 years). The sessions were observed using the SOCIN-fitness and SOPROX-fitness observation instruments and analyzed using the LINCE multiplatform sports analysis software. Descriptive results and time patterns (T-patterns) yielded by SPSS v.20.0 and THEME 5.0, respectively, revealed marked variability in kinesic and proxemic behaviors in all 4 disciplines, in addition to a predominance of gestures marked by the execution of the activities, with little interaction and participation with members of the class. Optimization of communication between fitness instructors and participants is key to improving motivation and acceptance of fitness programmes among the general population.

Keywords : paraverbal communication; observational methodology; T-patterns; fitness; comunicação paraverbal; metodologia observacional; padrões-T; fitness.

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