Exercise Delivery Services Codes of Conduct: Awareness and Adherence of Fitness Trainers in Ghana
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60787/tnhj.v23i4.744Keywords:
Exercise Delivery Services, Codes of Conduct, Adherence, Awareness, Fitness TrainerAbstract
Background: Ethical competency plays vital in the services of any profession including Fitness trainers (FT). There has been upsurge in the number of FT in Ghana in recent time with scarce information on the awareness and adherence to exercise delivery services codes of conduct (EDCC) that should guide their practice. This study investigated the awareness and adherence of FT in Ghana to EDCC in fitness industry.
Method: This exploratory research study had 30 FT recruited through a three step multi- stage sampling technique (Meanage =25.75 ± 3.86years) from fitness and wellness centers and gyms in Ghana. A close-ended questionnaire adapted from the British Association of Sports and Exercise Science codes of conduct was administered. Descriptive statistics and factor analysis were used for data analysis.
Result: FT were aware of the existence of EDCC internationally (total awareness contribution = 67.99%) but none in Ghana hence did not adhere to any. A regulatory body to set up, monitor and enforce rules and regulations governing fitness in Ghana was significantly unavailable (Chi-square = 2.449, P > 0.05).
Conclusion: Activities of FT in Ghana were not regulated by any professional body. Relevant stakeholders need to develop EDCC legal document for FT to ensure ethical conduct in the fitness industry across Ghana. It is recommended that accredited higher institution of learning in Ghana should develop certificate and refresher courses for FT. There should be stakeholders’ engagement to birth FT regulation in Ghana.
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