Abstract
Heart rate control training during effor t tests: the role of self-efficacy as both independent and de pendent variable. The aim of this study was to analyze the role of self-efficacy on the heart rate sefcontrol during exercice on a treadmille. As independent variable we try to analyze the influence of selfefficacy on heart rate control. As dependent variable we propose to study how self-efficacy to heart rate control in laboratory situation becomes generalized to other situations and tasks. The study involved 35 participants who were randomly assigned to each of 4 experimentals conditions generated by combining 2 independent variables: training strategy for heart rate control (heart rate biofeedback or verbal control instructions) and work level (30 or 50% of maximal heart rate). The results show that, when there is no specific training, the participants with high levels of self-efficacy control better their heart rate than those with low levels. The results also suggest some generalization of self-efficacy among other tasks and situations.
