Electrocortical effects of long duration exercise on cognitive function were investigated by analyzing P300 amplitude and latency changes during a 3-h cycling exercise. P300 components were measured in 12 well-trained cyclists and blood glucose, cortisol, insulin, glycerol, and free fatty acids (FFAs) epinephrine and norepinephrine were analyzed. Results indicated that P300 components were affected by exercise with a temporary increase in amplitude between the 1st and the 2nd hour and an increase in latency after 2 h of exercise concomitant with some hormonal changes, including an increase in cortisol and epinephrine and a decrease in blood glucose. These findings suggest a combined effect of arousal and central fatigue on electrocortical indices of cognitive function during acute physical exercise.
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