| Golf
has been recommended as a relatively risk-free form of exercise for
an ageing population. The aim of this study was to investigate the
effects of playing a round of golf on mood states in recreational
players. Ageing male golfers (N = 34; Age: M = 68.7, SD = 5.4 years)
completed a mood measure immediately before and after an 18-hole round
of golf. Distance walked per game was measured using a pedometer.
Results indicate reported scores on Anger, Depression, and Fatigue
increased and Vigor reduced following the game. However, it should
be noted that although there was an increase in unpleasant mood states,
this should be seen in the context of the overall mood profile, which
was positive. Pedometer results indicated golfers walked a mean distance
of 10.21 km (± 1.11). Results show participants of this age-group
engaged in a meaningful exercise session and that mood scores deteriorated
following play. Findings from the present study show that elderly
golfers experienced mood profiles following golf similar to younger
athletes following competition. For golf to be recommended as an activity
for promoting physical activity among an aging population, the player's
ability to regulate unpleasant mood states should be considered. Future
research should investigate the effects of experiencing negative mood
states following golf on motivation to participate.
KEY
WORDS: Health, affective states, exercise, emotion, and fitness.
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