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Διαφορές στην επίδραση της χρήσης γυμναστηρίων και spa στην εικόνα του σώματος και την ευεξία, την ποιότητα ζωής και την αυτοεκτίμηση. (Master thesis)

Μούτσιου, Λυδία

The purpose of this study was to investigate possible differences regarding the well-being and quality of life and body image and self-esteem of people who make: a) use gyms, b) use of spa and c) combined use gyms and spa. The survey involved 90 persons of which 30 persons made use of gym, 30 persons made use of spa and 30 persons made combined use of gym and spa. As a quality of life assessment tool was used the SF-36 scale or "Quality of life, Short Form 36» (Ware, 2007; Ware & Sherbourne, 1992) while the assessment of body image was performed with the scale of Theodorakis (1999). Finally, another tool used was the scale of body cathexis (Tucker, 1981; Theodorakis et al, 1990). Statistical analysis was performed with the statistical package SPSS 20. The results suggested that regardless of the use of the gym or the spa or combined use of them both, there were no statistically significant differences in body image and self-esteem as their use had a similar positive effect. On the other hand, as far as quality of life and wellbeing were concerned, the combined use of the fitness center and spa as a method, allegedly have a more positive effect than the individual use of each one. In conclusion it appears that physical activity when combined with spa treatments, leads participants to better results, as higher levels of health and more enjoyable life are achieved. Therefore to improve the body image of a person and his self-esteem as well as the quality of life and ultimately wellness, it is suggested the choice of the combined training method, which means gym and spa together.