Fit to Forgive: Effect of Mode of Exercise on Capacity to Override Grudges and Forgiveness

Abstract

Forgiveness is important for repairing relationships that have been damaged by transgressions. In this research we explored the notion that the mode of physical exercise that victims of transgressions engage in and their capacity to override grudges are important in the process of forgiveness. Two exploratory studies that varied in samples (community non-student adults, undergraduate students) and research methods (non-experimental, experimental) were used to test these predictions. Findings showed that, compared to anaerobic or no exercise, aerobic and flexibility exercise facilitated self-control over grudges and forgiveness (Studies 1 and 2), and self-control over grudges explained the relation between exercise and forgiveness (Study 2). Possible mechanisms for future research are discussed.

Joggin’ the Noggin: Towards a Physiological Understanding of Exercise-Induced Cognitive Benefits

“…Exercise that causes an increase in cardiovascular fitness (e.g. whole body aerobic exercise such as running, cycling, or walking) generally has more significant effects on cognition and brain structure than exercise focussed on enhancing strength, such as resistance training (Colcombe et al 2004;Colcombe et al 2006;Dustman et al 1984;Erickson et al 2011;Kramer et al 1999;Leckie et al 2014;Struthers et al 2017).…”

Responses to Transgressions: Grudges or Forgiveness?

“…According to van Monsjou et al (2023, p. 72), "when people commit transgressions, they signal their concern for their victim's welfare is unimportant". A distancing from the transgressor and a minimization of the relationship may be a means for the respondents to protect themselves against further harm and to reduce feelings of negative affect associated with the experience (Struthers et al, 2008;Struthers et al, 2017). Distancing themselves from the transgressor may explain why targets reported that the hurt they currently felt was less severe than the hurt they felt at the time they were wronged.…”

“…Alternative responses to being wronged include seeking revenge against the transgressor or forgiving the wrongdoer (Struthers et al, 2017;Struthers et al, 2019). Whereas seeking revenge and holding grudges may make the wronged individual feel better at least in the short-term, these responses may lead to the dissolution of the relationship with the transgressor.…”

“…A grudge typically emerges from some form of interpersonal conflict, most often involving close relationships such as friends, family, and romantic partners (van Oyen Witvliet et al, 2001;Wixen, 1971). Possible reasons why someone might hold a grudge include benefitting from a moral high ground, fearing perceived weakness, wanting to protect oneself from being hurt by the transgressor again in the future, and wanting the offender to hurt (Struthers et al, 2008;Struthers et al, 2017). Common emotions associated with holding grudges are anger, sadness, shame, and regret (Struthers et al, 2008;van Oyen Witvliet et al, 2001).…”

“…Common emotions associated with holding grudges are anger, sadness, shame, and regret (Struthers et al, 2008;van Oyen Witvliet et al, 2001). People who hold grudges may ruminate about the transgression, resulting in prolonged negative mood states, increased uncertainty, and potential avoidance of the transgressor (Struthers et al, 2017;see Watkins & Roberts, 2020, for a discussion of rumination). Prolonging these feelings can lead to increased vulnerability to physiological issues, including high blood pressure, decreased cardiovascular health, stomach ulcers, and an increase in pain disorders (Messias et al, 2010;van Oyen Witvliet et al, 2001).…”