What comes first, negative emotions, positive emotions, or moderate-to-vigorous physical activity?

Abstract

BackgroundAlthough there is no doubt that indicators of physical activity (PA), negative and positive emotions are associated, the order in which they operate is not well-established. In this study, we investigated indirect associations between a negative emotions indicator (emotional symptoms of depression; henceforth: depression), a positive emotions indicator (physical activity [PA] liking), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), in order to identify which one of the three variables is likely to precede the others. MethodsData were collected twice, with a 7–8-month follow-up. 879 adults from the general population (N = 879 at Time 1, T1; N = 603 at Time 2, T2) filled in questionnaires measuring depression, PA liking and MVPA. ResultsMediation analyses showed that a higher level of depression (T1) predicted a lower level of PA liking (T2) which in turn explained a lower MVPA level (T2). Additionally, a higher level of PA liking (T1) predicted a lower level of depression (T2), which in turn was associated with a higher MVPA level at T2. Analyses with MVPA operating as the independent variable or the mediator were not significant. ConclusionsResults indicated that both negative and positive emotions precede rather than follow MVPA engagement.