Research on physical activity and how it affects health. Covers running and step counts, disease risk reduction, fitness tracking, and exercise physiology.
A new study by Edith Cowan University found that exercising three days a week can significantly improve muscle strength, with smaller increases seen in two-day groups. Daily exercise is recommended for greater benefits, but muscles still need rest to adapt and improve strength.
A new open-source software, NMSM Pipeline, enables clinicians and engineers to create personalized computer models of patient movement to optimize treatment designs. The software uses physics-based models to predict and optimize functional outcomes for patients with various mobility impairments.
A study of 22,000 adults found that small amounts of vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity were associated with a lower incident cancer risk. This finding suggests that daily vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity may be a promising intervention for cancer prevention in populations unable or unmotivated to exercise.
A world-first study from the University of South Australia exposes the real weight gains of everyday Australians, finding that weight fluctuates throughout the year. The study highlights the importance of targeting temporal hot spots to curb unhealthy weight fluctuations and prevent unwanted weight gain.
Researchers found that just 4.5 minutes of vigorous activity per day can reduce the risk of some cancers by up to 32 percent. This type of physical activity, known as VILPA, involves short bursts of activity such as housework or power walking.
A study of over 34,000 adolescents found that active school transport was associated with higher academic performance and lower school burnout. Leisure-time moderate-to-vigorous physical activity also showed significant benefits, particularly for mathematical skills and cognitive performance.
Research found that very light exercise can improve prefrontal executive function, with pupil dilation during exercise indicating subsequent improvement. Pupil-linked neural activity was also shown to activate the brain's noradrenergic arousal system.
A Northwestern University study found that only 60% of women with heart disease risk factors received counseling on optimizing their heart health during their six-week postpartum visit. The study highlights the need for improved access to care and increased awareness of maternal cardiovascular health monitoring.
A pooled data analysis of clinical trials found that static isometric exercises were the most effective in lowering blood pressure, with reductions of up to 8.24/4 mmHg after isometric training. The findings suggest that current exercise guidelines may be outdated and support the development of new recommendations.
A study by the University of Essex found that top performers had a specific combination of 19 gene variants linked to running performance, resulting in an average improvement of 11.5% after just eight weeks of endurance training. Despite having the same training, those without these genetic markers showed little or no improvement.
Researchers discovered lactate's role in helping neural stem cells develop into specialized neurons. Lactate sends signals to cells, modifying and strengthening neuronal functions. The study provides insight into lactate signaling in the nervous system, with potential applications for preventing or controlling cognitive diseases.
A muscle-building supplement called beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) has been shown to reduce plaques and increase factors for neuronal growth in mice with Alzheimer's-like pathology. The study found that HMB stimulates a nuclear hormone receptor to improve memory and learning in mice with Alzheimer's disease.
A three-month mild exercise program improved executive function in middle-aged and older adults by increasing neural efficiency in the prefrontal cortex. The benefits were particularly pronounced in the older adult group, suggesting a positive impact on cognitive function and brain function with minimal physical exertion.
Researchers found that a combination of exercise and cognitive training significantly improved cognition in adults with mild cognitive impairment. Vitamin D supplementation had no impact on cognitive function.
A McMaster-led research study found that a virtual rehabilitation program for seniors with frailty was highly adhered to and showed improvements in mobility and quality of life. The study's results suggest that virtually delivered care is an alternative to in-person programs, potentially helping prevent decline in bodily functions.
Massachusetts General Hospital researchers discovered that concentrating moderate-to-vigorous physical activity into one to two days per week, or the
A study analyzing 89,000 individuals found that engaging in intense physical activity over a short period (weekend warrior pattern) lowers the risk of atrial fibrillation, heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. This type of activity was associated with similar lower risks compared to evenly distributed physical activity.
Researchers found that sleep patterns vary significantly across cultures and geographical locations. The study used commercially available smartwatches to collect data from over 52 million individuals in 11 countries, revealing discrepancies between self-reported data and digital logs.
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism underlying the neuroprotective effects of physical activity on Parkinson's disease. Intensive exercise has been shown to slow disease progression by restoring striatal synaptic plasticity and improving dopamine release, leading to better motor control and visuospatial learning.
A large-scale study found that exercise programs for dialysis patients lead to significant improvements in physical fitness, quality of life, and reduced hospital stays. Personalized exercise plans showed low costs per training unit, making them a viable option for standard healthcare coverage.
A meta-analysis suggests that regular exercise can decrease symptoms of postpartum depression, with team-based exercise and dance interventions showing the most promise. The study analyzed data from multiple studies to reach this conclusion.
A University of Otago study reveals that pre-operative high-intensity interval training can significantly improve patient outcomes after surgery, with a 56% reduction in post-operative complications. The study also found that participants who underwent HIIT prior to surgery stayed in the hospital for three fewer days on average.
Researchers found that all forms of resistance training are beneficial for building strength and muscle, with details mattering less than previously thought. The study analyzed data from over 5,000 participants and found that complex prescriptions are sufficient but unnecessary for gains in strength and muscle size.
A recent study published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity found that people who were more physically active had better cognitive function, but this benefit was reduced for those with short sleeps. The research suggests that getting sufficient sleep is essential to reap the full cognitive benefits of physical activity.
A recent international study of over 745,000 adolescents from 41 countries found a decrease in those who overestimate their weight and an increase in those who underestimate it. This shift could reduce the effectiveness of public health interventions aimed at weight reduction in young people, as they may make unhealthy lifestyle choices.
A new study from Aarhus University reveals that female athletes who consume too little energy through their diet in comparison to their training volume experience negatively impacted muscles' ability to respond to training. The study shows that insufficient energy intake can lead to changes in the hormonal system, including a decrease ...
A new $7 million study at Wake Forest University is investigating the impact of resistance training, bone-loading exercises, and osteoporosis medication on bone health in older adults who are losing weight. The study aims to determine whether these interventions can help preserve bone mass and reduce fracture risk.
A new study reveals a 12-week brain fitness program with coaching and lifestyle interventions improves patients' memory, attention, mood, and sleep. The program demonstrates significant improvements in cognitive function and reduces symptoms for ADHD, concussion, and memory loss patients.
A meta-analysis of almost 35,000 participants found that one-to-one sessions with dietitians were the most beneficial for controlling gestational weight gain. The team identified practical elements such as managing nausea and cravings to be key components of successful interventions.
A large Swedish study found that higher cardiorespiratory fitness may lower the incidence and mortality rates of certain cancers in men. The researchers suggest prioritizing CRF interventions for individuals with low fitness levels.
Researchers found that aerobic exercise combined with weightlifting, afternoon exercise, and post-meal exercise can provide better glucose control; no weight loss required to see benefits. More movement is generally better for insulin sensitivity.
A new study creates graphene capsules using seaweed and salt, enabling high precision, real-time biomechanical and vital signs measurements. This sustainable technology has the potential to outperform traditional non-sustainable sensors.
Researchers at the University of Malaga develop a new therapy using manual techniques and stretching to reduce pain and improve mobility in women with axillary web syndrome after breast cancer. The therapy, consisting of 15 sessions, has shown significant results in reducing evolution time of lymphatic thrombi.
A new study published in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism found that ketone supplements impaired performance in well-trained endurance cyclists. The researchers recruited experienced athletes who cycled for five or more hours per week, simulating race conditions before conducting a 20-minute time trial.
Researchers found that exercise-induced heart rate can cause plaque in moderately to severely blocked carotid arteries to migrate and halt blood flow to the brain. This can lead to ischemic stroke. The authors recommend checking arterial health regularly for people doing intense workouts.
Finnish older golfers experience significant increases in physical activity levels, including moderate exercise and walking. Quality of life also remains high, with over 90% reporting good well-being during the pandemic.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that wearable activity trackers improve patient activity, reduce sedentary behavior, and enhance physical function, supporting faster recovery in hospitalized adults. The study examined 15 studies with a combined total of 1911 patients and found significant improvements in clinical outcomes.
Interventions with wearable activity trackers increased physical activity levels, reduced sedentary behavior, and improved physical functioning in hospitalized adults. This systematic review and meta-analysis of 15 studies and 1,900 participants supports the use of wearable technology to enhance patient outcomes.
A group of international experts developed a consensus statement on concussion management, including new tools and strategies for identification, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. The statement includes evidence-based recommendations for return to active sport, education, and light intensity exercise to aid recovery.
A University of Massachusetts Amherst researcher has updated the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ), a widely used tool for measuring prenatal physical activity. The new PPAQ is considered reliable and valid, providing estimates of physical activity and sedentary behavior in pregnant women.
Researchers discovered that taurine levels decline with age and supplementation can increase lifespan in mice by up to 12% and extend healthy lifespans of middle-aged mice. Taurine also improved health parameters in mice, including weight gain suppression, increased energy expenditure, and enhanced immune function.
Researchers developed a new biological age indicator, DNAmFitAge, that incorporates physical fitness parameters, showing a correlation with lower mortality risk, coronary heart disease risk reduction, and improved disease-free status in physically fit individuals.
A supervised hospital walking program has been shown to reduce nursing facility admissions for older adults by lowering the proportion of patients discharged to skilled nursing facilities from 13% to 8%. However, low participation rates and limited impact on length of stay or inpatient falls were noted.
Research shows higher physical activity levels can lower type 2 diabetes risk in people with high genetic risk. Regular exercise, especially moderate- to vigorous-intensity activities, was associated with a 74% lower risk of developing the condition.
Researchers at UBC Okanagan found that a low-carb breakfast can significantly reduce blood sugar swings and improve glucose control. Participants who followed a low-carb breakfast plan showed lower glycemic variability and some were able to reduce their glucose-lowering medication.
Repetitive manual dexterity training for 12 weeks improves executive function and boosts cognitive load patterns in older adults. Daily training has a positive correlation with active blood hemoglobin levels in the prefrontal cortex.
Two researchers will receive $1 million each for their five-year studies on new medication-based approaches to repair damaged aortas, as well as the effects of exercise on healing heart muscle and brain tissue after a heart attack or stroke. The American Heart Association's Merit Award supports innovative research with high impact.
A University of Maryland study found that walking strengthened brain connectivity and improved memory in older adults with normal brain function and those diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. The research adds to the growing evidence that exercise slows cognitive decline and may delay Alzheimer's disease.
Children with superior motor skills outperform peers in reading and mathematics by the end of third grade. Early diverse movement supports motor development, but physical activity doesn't predict academic or motor skill success. Dr. Eero Haapala's study highlights the importance of motor skills as an academic booster.
A study by Florida Atlantic University and CINVESTAV found that long-term running maintains the connectivity of adult-born hippocampal neurons, which contribute to memory function during aging. Exercise may prevent or delay age-related memory decline by increasing the survival and modifying the network of these neurons.
Research reveals that chronic heart rate failure during exercise is a common reason for long-term exercise intolerance in Long COVID patients. The study also found a correlation between early post-COVID inflammation biomarkers and reduced exercise capacity, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.
A study led by Brown University researchers found that qigong practice significantly improved cancer-related fatigue in participants. The program was as effective as a more standard exercise program in reducing fatigue levels.
A recent study by researchers at UNICAMP found that low-load with many repetitions and high-load with fewer repetitions both promote similar muscle growth. Muscle activation patterns were different, but metabolic stress was the same in both groups.
A new study found that marathon running causes significant damage to extrinsic foot muscles, while intrinsic muscles are less affected. The research suggests that marathon runners can take steps to prevent injuries by prioritizing recovery and muscle fatigue management.
A large population-based randomized controlled trial found that providing better opportunities for exercise and group training can prevent falls and fall-related injuries among older women. The study showed a significant reduction in recurrent falls, fall-related injuries, and fractures caused by falls.
A University of Gothenburg study found that individuals who engaged in regular physical activity had smaller hemorrhages upon arrival at the hospital. Physically active patients experienced 50% less bleeding volume compared to inactive ones.
A Dutch study found that individuals who feel safe in their neighborhoods lose more weight during lifestyle interventions. Those with higher scores on a safety scale experienced greater decreases in weight and waist circumference, regardless of sex, age, or education level.
A new study found that female participants who exercised the most had a 25% lower rate of developing Parkinson's disease compared to those who exercised the least. The association remained even after adjusting for factors such as diet and medical conditions.
A study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that vigorous exercise is safe for people with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a rare inherited disorder affecting the heart muscle. The research, published in JAMA Cardiology, suggests that restrictions on exercise may be unnecessary for individuals with HCM.
Research found that meeting both recommended weekly physical activity targets was associated with a nearly half the risk of dying from flu or pneumonia as those who met neither. Meeting only the aerobic activity target was linked to a 36% lower risk, while muscle strengthening activities showed no significant difference.