Influence of Social Identity and Industry Role on Implicit Biases in Fitness Professional

Authors

Shayna J. Guerra, California State University, Long BeachFollow
Katie McPherrin, California State University, Long BeachFollow
Kellie Amanda Walters, California State University, Long BeachFollow
Leilani Madrigal, California State University, Long BeachFollow
Alison Ede, California State University Long BeachFollow
Amber Johnson, California State University, Long BeachFollow

Abstract

Implicit biases are unconscious, internally held beliefs shaped by cultural norms, societal structures, and personal experiences and are often related to societal constructs such as race, gender, age, body shape, and ability. Although evidence has demonstrated that fitness professionals possess both explicit and implicit weight biases, biases based on age, gender, skin color, and ability level have not been studied. PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to explore the influence of social identity (e.g., age, skin-tone, weight, disability) and industry role on implicit biases in fitness professionals. METHODS: Participants (n=296) were randomly assigned two implicit association tests (IATs)- disability, weight, gender, skin-tone, or age. IATs measured implicit bias through word and pictorial associations and timed response to word/picture stimuli. Structured interviews (n=25) were conducted to further examine participants’ psychosocial beliefs and experiences related to biases. RESULTS: Quantitative data revealed moderate preferences for younger, lighter skinned, thin, male individuals concurrent with a strong preference for able bodies. Certified personal trainers and strength and conditioning coaches held significantly stronger preferences towards younger people compared to people with other certifications and older adults were significantly more likely to prefer White, able-bodied, thin individuals compared to their younger counterparts. BIPOC participants and certified personal trainers reported a significantly greater gender bias compared to white participants and those with other certifications. Interviews divulged themes including unacknowledged biases, body aesthetics conflict, negative/positive weight associations, and negative/positive reactions to bias-related discourse. CONCLUSION: Several factors including the global health narrative which includes the perpetuation of idealistic bodies, inadequate professional training, racism, ageism, and ableism offer explanations for the high prevalence of implicit biases present among fitness professionals. Acknowledging and addressing these biases is an imperative step in upholding the quality of care that clients receive.

Recommended Citation

Guerra, Shayna J.; McPherrin, Katie; Walters, Kellie Amanda; Madrigal, Leilani; Ede, Alison; and Johnson, Amber (2024) "Influence of Social Identity and Industry Role on Implicit Biases in Fitness Professional," International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 14: Iss. 4, Article 36.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol14/iss4/36