Changes In Motivation States For Physical Activity With Maximal Exercise Vary By Aerobic Fitness Level

Several studies have demonstrated that vigorous, continuous exercise impacts motivation states to be active and sedentary, with desires to move falling and desires to rest increasing. However, it is not known if physical fitness moderates fluctuations in motivation states. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of aerobic fitness with changes in motivation states for energy expenditure, as measured by the CRAVE scale, which has two subscales (Move and Rest). METHODS: 35 participants (27 females; mean age = 21.8y [SD = 1.5]; mean BMI = 21.7 [SD = 3.3]) completed a cycle ergometer VO2max test. Participants completed the Chinese version of the CRAVE scale (CRAVE-C; 13 items; “Right now” version) just before and after testing. RESULTS: Percentage change in Move scores with exercise (Δ%Move) was negatively correlated with the percentage change in Rest scores (Δ%Rest) (r = -.54). Furthermore, Δ%Move demonstrated positive associations with test time (r = .42), max power output (Watts; r = .44), absolute maximal oxygen uptake (r = 0.60), and the maximal oxygen uptake relative to body mass (r = .65). Δ%Rest exhibited negative correlations with test time (r = -.34), Watts (r = -.35), absolute VO2max (r = -.37), and relative VO2;max (r = -.49). Age and BMI were unrelated to changes in motivation states. CONCLUSIONS: As with previous studies, the desire to move greatly decreased with maximal exhaustive exercise and desires to rest increased. Importantly, individuals with superior aerobic capacity exhibited a sharper decline in their desire for further activity post-exercise. Conversely, their inclination for rest was less pronounced compared to those with lower aerobic capacities. Future studies should seek to understand how these associations may relate to reinforcement for future activity behavior.