Kambis, K. W., Fulco, C. S., Friedlander, A. L., McQuaid, D. B., Jackson, C. W., Ickes, S. B., Muza, S. R., Rock, P. B., Cook, L., & Cymerman, A. (2003). Assessment of mood changes at 45% and 65% VO2max at sea level and 4,300 m altitude. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 35(5), Supplement abstract 887.

This study determined the effect of exercise of specific intensities on mood and compared changes at seal level to those at 4,300 m altitude. Altitude was simulated in a hyperbaric chamber. Males (N = 16) were administered the Feelings Profile and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) at baseline, after 15 minutes of exercise at 45% VO2max intensity, and again after 15 minutes of exercise at 65% VO2max while at sea level, and on days 3 and 10 at altitude.

There were negative changes in five POMS constructs at day 3 at altitude when compared to sea level. However, those differences had disappeared by day 10 at altitude. Except for depression, exercise intensities above 45% VO2max are required to affect mood at sea level.

Implication. Altitude precipitates mood changes at low and moderate exercise intensities when compared to sea level responses.

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