Affective and Cognitive Responses to Acute Bouts of Physical Activity and Mindfulness Training

Affective and Cognitive Responses to Acute Bouts of Aerobic Exercise, Mindfulness Meditation, and Combined Exercise and Meditation

The purpose of the present study is to investigate the benefits of mindfulness training during an acute bout of physical activity. We will compare the combination of mindfulness training and physical activity to mindfulness training alone and physical activity alone in three 20 minute sessions.

We will investigate whether mindfulness training during a single bout (20 minutes) of physical activity influences ratings of perceived exertion, feeling states and physiological response (blood pressure and heart rate) during physical activity. Changes in affect and cognitive function pre- and post- physical activity bout will also be assessed. The effects of mindfulness training during an acute bout of physical activity will be compared to mindfulness training alone and acute physical activity alone. This research will contribute to larger questions of how to increase rates of physical activity in the general population and make physical activity more enjoyable.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Fluent in spoken and written English
• Have access to internet to complete baseline and post-study assessments

Exclusion Criteria:

• Respiratory, joint, or cardiovascular problems precluding physical activity participation
• Fail the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) and are unable to obtain physician consent to participate