The Effect of a Cycling Partner on Intensity Selection and Enjoyment Ratings in Sedentary Adults

Kyle W. Reason^{1, 2,} , Lauren G. Killen², T. Scott Lyons², Jean Ann Helm Allen² and J. Matt Green²

¹Department of Kinesiology, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minnesota, United States

²Department of Kinesiology, University of North Alabama, Florence, Alabama, United States

Cite this paper:
Kyle W. Reason, Lauren G. Killen, T. Scott Lyons, Jean Ann Helm Allen and J. Matt Green. The Effect of a Cycling Partner on Intensity Selection and Enjoyment Ratings in Sedentary Adults. Research in Psychology and Behavioral Sciences. 2026; 12(1):21-27. doi: 10.12691/rpbs-14-1-3

Abstract

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Physical inactivity remains prevalent, underscoring the need for accessible exercise strategies that reduce barriers while enhancing motivation, enjoyment, and adherence through virtual group fitness. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of an exercise partner on intensity selection, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), exercise enjoyment, and perceived duration during a 30-min virtual cycling class. METHODS: Twenty-four sedentary adults completed a VO₂ peak test, and two identical 30-min virtual cycling classes: one individually (PAA) and one with an exercise partner (PAP). VO₂ (ml•kg^-1•min^-1), wattage (W), and HR (bpm) were assessed every min, while differential RPE for overall (RPE-O), legs (RPE-L), and breathing (RPE-B) as well as lactate (mmol•dL^-1) were assessed every 5 min. Additionally, perceived duration (min) and exercise enjoyment using the PACES questionnaire were assessed 15-min post exercise. RESULTS: Perceived duration was ~3 min lower (p = 0.06) for the PAP trial. Furthermore, participants selected significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) wattage at min 10 and 20 for the PAA trial. RPE-L was significantly higher for PAA at min 5, 10, and 30 and approached significance at min 15 and 20. Additionally, participants reported greater levels of invigoration and gratification following the PAA trial. CONCLUSION: Findings suggest participating in a virtually led cycling class with a partner (vs. individually) results in similar overall self-selection of intensity, lower RPE, lower levels of gratification and invigoration, as well as a decreased perceived duration. Collectively these results may systematically alter parameters of exercise bouts adopted during cycling exercise.

Keywords:
Exercise Partner Identifiability Kohler Effect Peloton Scalar Expectancy Theory

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