Abstract
The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of combined aerobic and
resistance exercise training among self-reported mood disturbances, perceived stress,
frequency of self-reported symptoms, and symptom distress in a sample of HIV+ adults.
For this purpose, 49 participants were randomly assigned into an exercise (EX) or
control (CON) group. Those in the EX group completed 50 min of supervised aerobic
and resistance training at a moderate intensity twice a week for 6 weeks. The CON
group reported to the university and engaged in sedentary activities. Data were collected
at baseline before randomization and 6 weeks post intervention. Measures included
the symptom distress scale (SDS), perceived stress scale (PSS), profile of mood states
(POMS) total score, and the POMS sub-scale for depression and fatigue. A 2 way ANOVA
was used to compare between and within group interactions. The EX group showed a significant
decrease in reported depression scores (p=0.03) and total POMS (p=0.003). The CON
group reported no change in POMS or SDS, but showed a significant increase in PSS.
These findings indicate that combination aerobic and resistance training completed
at a moderate intensity at least twice a week provides additional psychological benefits
independent of disease status and related symptoms.
Key words
clinical trial - stress - depression - exercise - physical activity
