Effects of consistent aerobic exercise on the psychological functioning of women.
Effects of consistent aerobic exercise on depression, anxiety, and health locus of control for a group of nonclinical inactive women were investigated. Type A and Type H (hard-driving) behavioral styles were evaluated to determine whether these traits were related to exercise improvement. 26 women were randomly assigned to either an exercise group (n = 10) or exercise with cognitive strategy instructions (n = 16). All subjects increased distance run in 12-min. run test from pre- to posttest. Women improved in depression and trait anxiety. Depression was significantly correlated with body mass index at end of program. Posttest state-anxiety was significantly correlated with 6-wk. follow-up of exercise frequency. No significant difference in pre- and posttest health locus of control was found. Type H scores were significantly correlated with number of exercise sessions attended. Consistent aerobic exercise had a positive effect on psychological functioning, and some characteristics may affect exercise improvement.
Labbé
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EE
Department of Psychology, University of South Alabama, Mobile 36688.
Welsh
M C
MC
Delaney
D
D
D000328:Adult; D001007:Anxiety / Q000628:therapy*; D003071:Cognition; D003863:Depression / Q000628:therapy*; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005260:Female; D006262:Health; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008875:Middle Aged; D010551:Personality; D014434:Type A Personality