Recent studies in the area of sport and exercise science have suggested that weightlifting performance may be significantly improved under ambiguous conditions—namely, when the amount to be lifted is unknown. In the present study, procedural concerns from previous studies examining the effect of ambiguity were noted and a methodological variation was introduced.

The purpose of this study was to examine the self-concepts and body cathexis of both males and females engaged in an eleven week weight training course and to examine if differences in gender role would influence the relationship of strength to self-concept and body cathexis. Each group (weight trainers versus controls) was administered the Tennessee Self Concept Scale, Bem Sex-Role Inventory, Eysenck Personality Inventory, and the Body Cathexis Scale. Strength measures were obtained. Group by gender ANOVA and ANCOVA examined differences between and among the groups and genders. Gender role by gender ANOVA and ANCOVA examined differences between and among the androgynous and masculine typed males and females. Multiple regression analyses were performed to examine the relationship of strength to body cathexis and self-concept. Results indicated pre- and post differences between and among the groups and genders and the genders and the gender roles.