Dopamine Levels Affect Perception of Physical Exertion.

Dopamine levels play a crucial role in how physical exertion feels to individuals, according to a study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers. The study focused on dopamine's role in people's self-assessment of effort needed for a physical task, without the promise of a reward. The findings could lead to more effective ways to help people establish and stick with exercise regimens, new treatments for fatigue associated with depression and many other conditions, and a better understanding of Parkinson's disease.