The effects of exercise intensity on the cortisol response to a subsequent acute psychosocial stressor
Overview
Paper Summary
This study found that vigorous exercise dampened the cortisol response to a later psychosocial stress task in a sample of young men, whereas light and moderate exercise did not. This suggests a dose-response relationship between exercise intensity and the body's stress response to future stressful events, potentially through a glucocorticoid negative feedback loop.
Explain Like I'm Five
Intense exercise can reduce your body's stress response to later stressful situations. It's like your body gets a little "used to" stress after a hard workout.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
This is a strong experimental study with a relevant research question and methodology. The authors used a dose response design, a clear and valid statistical analysis plan, and an appropriate acute stressor. Although there are limitations regarding generalizability and more in-depth examination of underlying mechanisms of cross-stressor adaptation (see limitations), the findings have relevance to stress mitigation efforts using exercise.
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