Skipping workouts is likely to result in which of the following effects on stress physiology?

• A. Decreased feelings of anxiety and tension
• B. Enhanced release of endorphins leading to reduced stress
• C. Increased levels of cortisol, the primary stress hormone
• D. Improved regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of physical exercise in stress physiology, particularly how regular workouts influence stress hormones and the body's stress response system.
2. Recognize that skipping workouts removes the beneficial effects of exercise, such as the release of endorphins, which normally help reduce feelings of anxiety and tension.
3. Recall that the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulates the body's response to stress by controlling the release of cortisol, the primary stress hormone.
4. Analyze how lack of exercise can disrupt the regulation of the HPA axis, leading to increased cortisol levels, which are associated with heightened stress and anxiety.
5. Conclude that skipping workouts is likely to result in increased cortisol levels rather than decreased anxiety or improved HPA axis regulation.