Mood and HRV

Several previous posts have touched on the benefits of monitoring heart rate variability (HRV). When training load increases, HRV taken the following morning characteristically decreases signifying lack of adaptation by the cardiovascular system, fatigue, and resulting in a reduction in performance. Conversely, when HRV rises this typically signifies positive changes in autonomic activity which results in improved performances.

While this is a gross simplification of complex processes that are highly nuanced, it represents a base from which to gauge responses to training loads. Beyond the physical, HRV also relates to the response to psychological stressors. A study recently published in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation found mood and HRV to be positively related. Additionally, researchers reported an inverse relationship between training and mood, e.g., a difficult training session would lead to a reduction in mood the next day (Alfonso & Capdevila, 2022).

 In practical terms, when tracking your metrics, don’t neglect your subjective stats. They may offer further insights to your body’s response as a whole.