Investigation into the dynamics of internal and external intensities during a tourist canyoning season

Abstract

This study aimed to achieve its objectives by: (i) detailing and analyzing fluctuations in internal and external intensities and assessing well-being of canyoning guides; (ii) investigating the connections between required intensities, well-being measures, and the subjective perception of effort throughout the entire season and its distinct periods. The methodology involved a daily monitoring process for 18 professional canyoning guides (aged 35.28±4.56 years; BMI 24.31±2.94) over an 11-week period, utilizing Polar V800 watch equipment. The Hooper Index (HI) questionnaire and perceived subjective effort (RPE) were administered, and body mass and handgrip strength were measured at two specific points during the season. The findings revealed significant associations between internal intensity variables (VII) and measures of well-being during the overall season, excluding maximum heart rate (HR max), which displayed no correlation with any of the mentioned variables. Significant associations between internal and external intensities were evident, except for RPE, which did not show any association with external intensity variables (VIE). Similarly, well-being vs. VIE did not show significant associations. The first period of the season revealed a lower number of significant associations, while the second period had the highest number of significant associations between variables. Conclusions: Overall, VII is significantly related to measures of well-being. It is noticeable that the perceived effort ratings of the routes show fewer fluctuations in the middle of the season, while well-being ratings increase. The obtained results can help in controlling the psychophysiological needs of the guides and thus achieve better organization and scheduling of activities with greater professionalism and psychophysiological disposition for the tourist.