Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
group
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Emily Amortegui, Freshman Ashley Albert, Riley Ensor, Keyanna Jackson, Freshman
Lead Presenter's Name
Emily Amortegui
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty Mentor Name
Dr. Emel Sen Kilic
Abstract
With many students dealing with anxiety, sadness, and high levels of stress, mental health issues among college students have grown in intensity. A lot of research has been done on the possible benefits of physical activity for mental health, but most of it focuses on correlations rather than the biological mechanisms. The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of varying exercise intensities on physiological stress markers and mood in college students ages 18 to 25. To assure precise intensity levels, participants from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University will work out at low, moderate, and high intensities while wearing heart rate monitors. Saliva samples will be taken to test cortisol and endorphin levels, and mood surveys will be given before and after exercise. In comparison, there will also be a control session with no exercise. This study aims to improve understanding of the connection between exercise intensity and mental health by examining both psychological reactions and physiological changes. The results may shed light on the biological mechanisms underlying mood enhancements connected to the exercise.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
Included in
Exercise Physiology Commons, Exercise Science Commons, Psychological Phenomena and Processes Commons
Exercise Intensity and the Effects on Mood and Wellbeing
With many students dealing with anxiety, sadness, and high levels of stress, mental health issues among college students have grown in intensity. A lot of research has been done on the possible benefits of physical activity for mental health, but most of it focuses on correlations rather than the biological mechanisms. The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of varying exercise intensities on physiological stress markers and mood in college students ages 18 to 25. To assure precise intensity levels, participants from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University will work out at low, moderate, and high intensities while wearing heart rate monitors. Saliva samples will be taken to test cortisol and endorphin levels, and mood surveys will be given before and after exercise. In comparison, there will also be a control session with no exercise. This study aims to improve understanding of the connection between exercise intensity and mental health by examining both psychological reactions and physiological changes. The results may shed light on the biological mechanisms underlying mood enhancements connected to the exercise.