Does It Matter When You Exercise? The Impact on Morale

Abstract

By Ian McCulloch, Per-Physical Therapy - Exercise & Movement Focus; Vincent Gerrish, Per-Physical Therapy - Exercise & Movement Focus; Cassidy Jenkins, Per-Occupational Therapy

Advisor: Susan Kotowski

Presentation ID: 296

Abstract: Previous research has shown that there are a wide variety of advantages and disadvantages to exercising at different times during the day. The purpose of this project was to determine how exercising at different times of the day (e.g., morning, afternoon, and evening) affects morale. Twenty participants over the age of 18 were recruited to participate in this project. Participants filled out a baseline survey which included demographic questions and questions related to exercise habits including what exercises they regularly participate in, duration of exercise per week, and time of day normally exercise is normally completed. Participants also completed a second survey immediately prior to, immediately after, and 24 hours after completing each exercise session. There were fourteen survey questions directed at evaluating numerous emotions of the participant (e.g. mood, attitude, energy level, ability to focus, stress, anxiety, etc.) upon which overall morale was predicted and defined. Each participant completed 3 different exercise sessions, one in the morning, one in the afternoon, and one in the evening. The type of exercise completed during each session was self-selected. It is predicted that morale will be highest after exercising in the morning.