Snook, E. M., Jerome, G. J., & Petruzzello, S. J. (2002). Mood changes over a training season in age group swimmers. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 34(5), Supplement abstract 1114.

Age-group swimmers (M = 7; f = 15) completed the Profile of Mood States (POMS) and the Activation-Deactivation Adjective Check List (ADACL) over a 3.5 month summer training period at early, mid, and taper stages.

Fatigue (POMS) increased and energy (ADACL) decreased from early to mid training. Fatigue was reduced from mid to taper. Coping style did not change across the season.

Implication. Age-group swimmers display a characteristic worsening of mood during periods of heavy training with subsequent recovery during taper.

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