The Exercise Intensity–Affect Relationship: Evidence and Implications for Exercise Behavior

The dual-mode theory proposes that affective responses to exercise are governed by the interplay of factors influenced by the metabolic demands of exercise intensity. This paper highlights methods and mechanisms that are central to the theory and presents evidence to demonstrate the shift in affective responses, from pleasure to displeasure, as the intensity of exercise increases and causes disruption to physiological homeostasis. The data will comprise reference to active and sedentary participants and include research that has been conducted with adults and children. The potential role of self-selected exercise intensity and self-regulation using an affective scale that involves key processes underpinning the dual-mode theory will be considered. In addition, given recent evidence that affective responses during exercise may be a determinant of future exercise behavior, the practical role of the peak-end rule will be discussed and relevant studies presented. These studies explore the application of the peak-end rule to exercise behavior and examine the influence of “peak” affective memory on future exercise intentions.