Differential effects of morning and evening exercise on the mood state of rural older adults: A cross-sectional study

Our study fulfils a need for more research on the differential effects of morning and evening exercise on the mood state of older adults. We used a convenience sampling method to select 346 older adults living in rural areas of China, who completed the Short-Form Profile of Mood States Scale in a time period during which they exercised. We found that older adults who exercised in the morning had a higher level of self-esteem than those who exercised in the evening. In addition, women who exercised in the morning had lower tension, higher energy and self-esteem, and a more positive mood than women who exercised in the evening. There was no significant difference in mood state between men who exercised in the morning versus the evening. This study provides a basis for the development of relevant physical exercise policies for older adults in rural areas.