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present study tested, both retrospectively and prospectively, exercise-induced
mood changes among regular exercisers. Specifically, it examined the
extent to which preferred exercise modality promoted greater mood
benefits. A group of 25 exercise participants (M = 35.5 yr., SD =
10.5 yr.) took part in the study. All participants had exercised at
least three times a week (M = 3.5, SD = 2.3) during the previous year.
Participants completed a 14-item Exercise Preference Questionnaire
to provide retrospective evaluations of their most- and least-preferred
type of exercise. For the prospective investigation, participants
completed the Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS) 15 minutes before and immediately
after their most- and least-preferred exercise sessions. One week
separated completion of each exercise session. Retrospective assessment
of exercise-induced mood changes showed strong support for enhanced
mood following the preferred mode of exercise. Also, as hypothesized,
prospective results showed that mood enhancement was greater following
the preferred exercise modality, but significant mood enhancement
also occurred following the least-preferred modality among experienced
exercisers. In conclusions, findings support the principle that exercise
can provide psychological benefits to its participants, in the form
of positive affective outcomes, something that appears to be enhanced
by preferred exercise modality. Given the important public health
implications of exercise adherence, future research should seek to
further investigate the mechanisms of exercise-induced mood enhancement.
KEY
WORDS: Mood, emotion, affect, exercise, preferred modality,
POMS, BRUMS.
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