Effects of Running on Moods: A Time Series Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the mood variation in runners of differing ability and commitment to running and the time at which they ran. The subjects, 32 male and 27 female undergraduates of a state university, were in one of three groups based on ability and commitment to running. A time-series design was utilized whereby each group completed four Profile of Mood State questionnaires over a 6-hr. period that centered on the time of day at which subjects ran. All subjects completed a 12-item Commitment to Running scale. Both groups of runners had significantly more positive POMS mood profiles than nonrunners. Mood changes over time suggest that the activity of running may improve one's mood and that moderate levels of running result in positive mood profiles comparable to those of advanced runners.