Self-efficacy enhanced multi-joint exercise improves fitness and cardiometabolic health in overweight and obese older adults: a randomised controlled trial

Excess weight in older adults is an increasing challenge to healthy aging. While physical exercise and self-efficacy each offer benefits, few interventions combine both. This study examined the effects of integrating self-efficacy strategies with multi-joint resistance training on health outcomes in overweight and obesity older adults. Thirty-three older adults (age 67.49±4.49 years, body mass index 24.65±1.15kg/m ² ) were randomly assigned to a multi-joint exercise group (MJ) or a combined exercise and self-efficacy group (MJS). Both groups completed a 12-week progressive resistance training program (60 minutes, three times per week). The multi-joint exercise group incorporating self-efficacy theory group (MJS) also received psychological strategies based on self-efficacy theory. Outcomes included self-efficacy, body composition, physical function, and biomarkers. Both groups improved in body composition and physical function. The MJS group showed significantly greater reductions in body mass (p = 0.044), BMI (p = 0.029), and fat mass (p < 0.001), along with higher gains in self-efficacy. HbA1c levels decreased significantly in the MJS group (p = 0.021), while fasting glucose increased in the multi-joint exercise group (MJ). Combining self-efficacy strategies with resistance training enhances physical and psychological outcomes in overweight and obesity older adults and may support long-term exercise adherence.