Mood changes in women after an aerobics class: a preliminary study

Area of Science:

• Exercise Psychology
• Sports Medicine
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Physical exercise is known to confer psychological benefits, including improved mood and reduced anxiety.
• Aerobics classes are gaining popularity, particularly among women.
• Understanding mood alterations following structured exercise is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the mood changes in women participating in an aerobics class.
• To compare mood alterations between high-frequency and low-frequency exercisers.

Main Methods:

• A specially devised mood adjective checklist was administered to 97 women (45 high-frequency, 52 low-frequency exercisers) before and immediately after an aerobics class.
• Principal components analysis was used to identify mood dimensions.
• Subscale scores for Positive Mood, Negative Mood, and Fatigue were calculated.

Main Results:

• Significant mood improvements were observed after the aerobics class.
• Participants reported increased positive affect and decreased negative affect.
• A reduction in perceived fatigue was also noted.
• The extent of mood change was comparable between high-frequency and low-frequency exercisers.

Conclusions:

• Aerobics classes positively impact women's mood, reducing negative affect and fatigue.
• Exercise intensity (frequency) did not significantly alter the magnitude of these psychological benefits.
• Regular participation in aerobics can be recommended for psychological well-being in women.