The Effects of Weight-Training Exercise on Aggression Variables in Adult Male Inmates

Abstract

This study examined the effects of weight training on aggression levels in adult males incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). Of the 240 voluntary participants, 202 completed two psychometric instruments to assess changes in aggression levels. Measures of verbal aggression, hostility, and anger significantly decreased in the weight-training group, whereas vigor scores significantly decreased in the non-weight-training group. Results offer some support to the belief that engaging in weight training, or at least engaging in voluntary physical activity, may have an effect on reducing inmate aggression levels.