Recovery of Mood Changes Experienced When Running an Ultramarathon

Abstract

Psychological mood states have been shown to affect performance of ultramarathoners. To investigate differences between finishers and nonfinishers and mood changes associated with competing in an ultramarathon, mood states of 14 men were examined before and after the competition. The Profile of Mood States was administered pre-, post-, 1 wk., 1 mo., and 3 mo. postrace. Three mood states showed significant differences across time. Tension was higher prerace than at any time postrace. Vigor was lower immediately postrace and showed a gradual return to prerace levels. Fatigue was higher immediately postrace but returned to prerace levels by 1 wk. Changes in mood states may persist for up to one month following sustained physical performance in the ultramarathon. These changes in mood states may adversely influence ability to perform unless adequate recovery time is permitted prior to resuming training and competing.