Relations between anhedonia and physical activity

Am J Health Behav. 2012 Nov;36(6):860-72. doi: 10.5993/AJHB.36.6.12.

Abstract

Objective: To examine the relation of 2 measures of anhedonia-a specific facet of depression indicative of inability to experience pleasure-to physical activity (PA).

Method: Cross-sectional correlational survey study of 157 college students (73% female, M age 19.9 years).

Results: One or both measures of anhedonia were inversely associated with walking frequency, moderate-intensity PA frequency and duration, and vigorous-intensity PA frequency and duration (βs -16 to -.27, Ps < .05). Some of these associations were statistically mediated by lower PA enjoyment.

Conclusions: Deficient pleasure may be an important affective mechanism underlying PA behavior.

MeSH terms

  • Anhedonia / physiology*
  • California
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Depression / physiopathology
  • Exercise / physiology
  • Exercise / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Young Adult