Tele-Exercise for Fitness: Physical and Psychological Outcomes in Athletes and Non-Athletes’ Trainees

Abstract

Background: This research explored how tele-exercise influenced physical fitness and mental well-being in individuals with and without disabilities and with different training habits. Methods: One hundred and ninety-three participants were categorized into two groups: athletes and non-athletes. Participants were involved in either synchronous or asynchronous tele-exercise programs of two or three sessions of workouts per week, lasting eight weeks. Psychological well-being was evaluated pre- vs. post-intervention by the WHO-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5), Psychological General Well-Being Index (PGWBI), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Fitness assessment tools included the 2-minute step test, curl-up test, forward bending test, and squat test. Body weight was also assessed pre- and post-intervention. Results: The analysis showed a significant increment in all fitness scores (p-value ranged from <0.001 to 0.015) with no change in body weight. Psychological tests indicated an overall increment in the participants’ well-being measured by the WHO-5 and unexpectedly, also in the stress level assessed through PSS-10. Conclusions: Enabled by technology, tele-exercise provides a flexible and convenient complementary approach to conventional workouts, helping individuals maintain an active lifestyle and improve their well-being. Positive effects on the sedentary population’s lifestyles are discussed.