The effects of low-frequency aerobic exercise training on psychological well-being

Aim: Many studies have reported that aerobic exercise is effective in improving psychological well-being. However, there is little knowledge about whether it is effective at a low-frequency of one or two times a week. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of low-frequency aerobic exercise training on psychological well-being in young adults using a mental health questionnaire. Methods: University students who did not regularly exercise participated in the present study (training group: n=18, control group: n=16). The training group performed aerobic exercise training at a lowfrequency (total of 30 times, once a week or more), while the control group performed no exercise. Estimated VO_2max, body weight and psychological well-being were measured before and after the aerobic exercise training period. Results: VO_2max and body weight did not significantly change after aerobic exercise training. Compared with the control group, however, the training group exhibited a significant improvement in psychological well-being after the aerobic exercise training period. Conclusion: These findings suggest the possibility that even low-frequency aerobic exercise training is effective for improving psychological well-being.