Motivation and Neurotransmitters in Rowers

This study explores how motivation and body chemistry are connected during and after intense physical exercise in national-level rowers. Researchers want to understand how psychological factors, such as motivation to achieve goals, relate to changes in hormones and brain chemicals that occur with exercise and recovery.

Before the exercise test, participants will complete a motivation questionnaire called the Inventory of Achievement Motivation (LMI). This questionnaire helps identify how strongly a person is driven to perform, overcome challenges, and reach success.

After the questionnaire, each participant will complete a 6000-meter rowing test on an indoor rowing machine. This test is designed to produce a high level of physical effort similar to competition conditions. Blood samples will be taken three times: before the test, immediately after the test, and one hour after recovery.

The blood samples will be used to measure levels of several hormones and neurotransmitters, including testosterone, cortisol, serotonin, dopamine, beta-endorphin, anandamide (AEA), and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These substances are involved in stress response, motivation, reward, and recovery.

Researchers will compare the results from the motivation questionnaire with changes in hormone and neurotransmitter levels. The goal is to find out whether more motivated athletes show different chemical responses to exercise and recovery.

Findings from this study may improve understanding of how the mind and body interact during intense training. This knowledge could help athletes and coaches develop better ways to support motivation, performance, and recovery in high-level sports.

Inclusion criteria

National-level male rowers Age between 18 and 35 years Minimum of 3 years of systematic rowing training Regular training load (at least 10 sessions per week during the competitive season) Good general health and medical clearance for maximal exercise testing

Exclusion criteria

Current illness, injury, or infection Use of medications or dietary supplements that could affect hormone or neurotransmitter levels Smoking or use of psychoactive substances Inadequate sleep or food intake before testing Refusal or inability to provide informed consent