Self-Esteem and Body Image in Older Women Practicing Taekwondo with Low Bone Density: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Physical exercise can take on a multivariate form, including combat sports, specifically Taekwondo, a Korean sport characterized by strikes involving the hands and feet. This sport has been gaining popularity worldwide in recent years and is being practiced by diverse populations, including the older women. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Taekwondo training on self-esteem and body image in older women with low bone mineral density (BMD). This is an experimental research with a two-group design, where assessments were conducted pre- and post during a 12-week intervention period. The sample consisted of 27 inexperienced older women in taekwondo practice, aged between 60 and 70 years, randomly distributed into the experimental group (n=14) and Control Group (n=13). BMD, self-esteem, and body image were assessed. For the evaluation of self-esteem, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) was utilized. For the evaluation of body images, the body image questionnaire was administered. The results showed that the practice of taekwondo improved (p<0.001) body image in the variables, including physical condition, body skills, and health, while the variable appearance showed no difference (p=0.581). The results of this experimental study indicate an improvement in the self-esteem and body image of older individuals practicing Taekwondo.