Research on physical activity and how it affects health. Covers running and step counts, disease risk reduction, fitness tracking, and exercise physiology.
Researchers found that moderate exercise improved spatial memory impairments in type 2 diabetic rats, possibly due to increased lactate levels and normalization of glycogen levels. Exercise also normalized MCT2 expression, which may be a key mechanism underlying the improved memory function.
A national study found that approximately 30 million Americans with mobility challenges lack appropriate clothing, leading to declining participation in social events and work. Researchers suggest that apparel manufacturers can play a vital role in providing accessible clothing options to eliminate barriers for people with disabilities.
A recent study found that sedentary men who exercise regularly for six months experience significant improvements in sperm count and quality. The researchers discovered that moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) yielded the most pronounced benefits, with men experiencing increases in semen volume, sperm motility, morphology, an...
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center discovered that dysfunctional N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) brain receptors cause hearing deficits in schizophrenia. Patients who received training and administration of an amino acid, D-serine, significantly improved their ability to distinguish subtle differences in pitch.
A simple home-based walking program improved physical capacity and quality of life in patients undergoing long-term dialysis. The study, published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, found that regular exercise can have positive effects on dialysis patients.
A four-week prehabilitation program has shown promising results in preparing cancer patients for surgery by improving their physical fitness and reducing recovery time. The study involved 116 colorectal cancer patients who underwent the program before undergoing surgery.
A recent study published in INFORMS journal Information Systems Research assesses the impact of Facebook's granular privacy controls on user disclosure behavior. Results show that users increased their use of wall posts and decreased their use of private messages after introducing the new controls.
Adults with MCI who exercised four times a week experienced an increase in brain volume, particularly in gray matter regions. Aerobic exercise also improved executive function compared to stretching exercises.
A 'Sit Less' intervention, breaking up sitting with standing and light-intensity walking, significantly improved insulin sensitivity and 24-hour glucose levels compared to traditional exercise. The study found that reducing sitting time can be a more effective way to improve blood sugar control for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Researchers found that amphetamine slows down body temperature rise and masks fatigue in rats, allowing them to run longer. However, this mechanism can lead to dangerous overheating of muscles, posing a significant health risk.
A recent study found that BORN TO MOVE participants increased their push-up performance by 111 percent and participated in more moderate-to-intense physical activity compared to regular school PE classes. The program also boosted motivation and enjoyment among participants, leading to improved overall fitness and health outcomes.
A study by University of Sydney found that cycling, swimming, and racquet sports reduce risk of death from cardiovascular disease and other causes. Participation in these activities lowered the risk of death from CVD by 56% for racquet sports, 41% for swimmers, and 36% for aerobics.
A new study found that well-trained women do not experience autonomic heat responses during exercise, despite common misconceptions. The research also revealed that humid heat reduces sweat effectiveness, leading to impaired performance.
A UBC study shows that targeted email messages can increase calcium intake among Canadians, with participants consuming an extra 200mg of calcium per day. The research highlights the effectiveness of providing salient information and relevant strategies to promote healthy habits on a limited budget.
The Hadza people, an indigenous ethnic group in Tanzania, engage in significantly more physical activity than recommended by US government standards. Their lifestyle, characterized by regular hunting and gathering, is associated with extremely low risk of cardiovascular disease.
A randomized trial found that strengthening and aerobic exercises did not alleviate long-term knee pain or improve activity limitations compared to usual care. Most patients experienced reduced knee pain and improved function, but physical performance deficits persisted 12 months post-replacement.
A recent study by UNM Nutrition Professor Peter Pribis has found that consuming walnuts can significantly improve the mood of young men. The randomized trial involved 64 students aged 18-25 who were given either banana bread with walnuts or without for 16 weeks, with their mood measured at the end of each eight-week period.
Regular aerobic exercise has been shown to improve artery health and reduce stiffness in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study found that aerobic exercise significantly benefits vascular function and smooth muscle function in the arteries.
A large-scale 'Phase III' trial will investigate the connection between exercise and brain health in older adults, exploring cognitive, brain, and physical changes. The study, led by Pitt professor Kirk Erickson, aims to understand how individual differences such as age and genetics affect the results.
Researchers found a weak correlation between muscle size and strength gains following training. Muscle growth can occur with low or high load resistance training, but strength results vary.
New research from University of Southern Denmark shows that elite athletes' muscles produce more energy-efficient mitochondria, generating up to 25% more energy. This discovery has implications for treating diseases affecting muscle function and may lead to new treatment options.
A study published in the journal Obesity found that a simple brain scan can predict weight loss success in elderly individuals with high accuracy. The researchers used MRI scans to measure brain gray and white matter volume, which provided higher prediction accuracy than using either one alone.
A study led by the University of Kent found that transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) delayed leg muscle exhaustion by 15% during exhaustive leg exercise. Participants felt less effort during exercise, but no effect was observed on neuromuscular response.
A low-impact exercise program in senior centers helped decrease pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life for participants. Participants reported significant improvements in activities of daily living and were very satisfied with the program.
Research at York University found that eating more fruits and vegetables daily, combined with regular exercise, improves cognitive functioning and may delay dementia. The study, which analyzed data from over 45,000 participants, showed a significant relationship between physical activity and better cognitive performance.
A University of Michigan study found that low-carb meals significantly lower insulin resistance by over 30 percent within 24 hours, while high-carb meals sustain it. Exercise before meals also failed to lower insulin resistance, and may even increase blood sugar levels.
A new study shows that a novel, nonsurgical approach can help 3 out of 4 adolescent athletes with vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) breathe better during exercise. The approach involves visual biofeedback, breathing techniques, and performance psychology training, and has been shown to improve breathing in 75% of patients.
A UBC study recommends cyclists ride at 12-20 km/h and pedestrians walk at 2-6 km/h to reduce air pollution inhalation. The ideal travel speeds, or minimum-dose speeds, vary by age and sex group, with faster speeds increasing pollution risk.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania found that competition significantly motivates people to exercise more than friendly support. The study, which recruited nearly 800 Penn students, showed that attendance rates were 90% higher in competitive groups compared to a control group. Meanwhile, team support actually led to lower ...
A recent study found that vitamin E supplements increased pneumonia risk by 68% in older smoking men who didn't exercise, while decreasing risk by 69% in those who exercised regularly. The findings suggest that a single universal estimate of vitamin E's effect may be misleading for some population groups.
A study found that long-duration spaceflight weakens the muscles supporting the spine, leading to increased back pain and disc disease. Researchers suggest exercise countermeasures like core-strengthening exercises and yoga may help prevent muscle atrophy and improve spinal function.
A UBC study found that 50% of smoker statements during counselling sessions have nothing to do with quitting tobacco. Counsellors mostly discuss medical aids like smoking cessation drugs and nicotine patches.
A recent study published in Journal of American Geriatrics Society found that increasing muscle strength can improve brain function in adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment. The SMART trial involved 100 community-dwelling adults who performed resistance exercise and showed significant improvements in global cognition and brain function.
A new study found that even low physical fitness levels can reduce most cardiovascular risk factors. Researchers analyzed 205 men and 44 women with heart disease, finding that normal fitness levels were sufficient to prevent five of the eight risk factors, including depression and obesity.
Researchers discovered that muscle tissue has a built-in clock controlling energy efficiency, with optimal performance during the day. The finding suggests that humans may be able to respond better to exercise during daylight hours.
A recent review and analysis of published studies found low-to-moderate evidence that dietary and exercise interventions can improve physical function and quality of life in older adults with obesity. The study included 405 adults aged over 60 years, highlighting the need for well-designed trials to address obesity in this population.
Researchers found that listening to music while engaging in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) improved attitudes towards the exercise regimen. Participants who repeated HIIT sessions with music reported enjoying it and being more likely to participate again.
A randomized controlled trial found that preoperative high-intensity interval training improved aerobic performance in patients with operable non-small cell lung cancer. However, it did not significantly reduce postoperative complications or mortality rates.
Research suggests that exercise can lead to a small improvement in overall thinking skills and executive function abilities in individuals with mild vascular cognitive impairment. Participants who exercised for six months showed better blood pressure and cardiovascular capacity compared to those who did not exercise.
Researchers found that consuming an ice slurry mixture was as effective as ambient water even when consumed in half the quantity, reducing physiological strain and heat production. The study suggests that temperature of the fluid may be as important as volume when managing thermoregulation in hot environments.
Researchers found that minimal exercise can regulate insulin levels, maintain metabolic function, and help prevent significant weight gain in postmenopausal women. Sedentary rats experienced a 50% reduction in fat tissue after limited physical activity, highlighting the benefits of any amount of exercise.
A study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that frequent participation in multiple types of leisure activities reduces heart-related deaths among seniors. Engaging in low-intensity daily physical activity can provide cardiovascular protection.
Researchers found that exercise and methamphetamine can re-establish circadian rhythmicity in animals, suggesting a potential new way to treat addiction. This approach associates drug usage with a non-harmful stimulus, leveraging brain plasticity to rewiring the brain's circuitry.
Researchers found that CTA tests led to higher adoption of preventive measures and healthier lifestyle practices compared to exercise electrocardiography and stress tests. After 60 days, more people who underwent CTA tests started taking aspirin, statins, and beta-blockers, and eating healthier, with lower rates of obesity.
A recent UBC study found that directing building air handling units through a snow dump can reduce summer air-conditioning bills. The study's results show promising potential for this type of system to be used in large buildings and institutions.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found variable accuracy of wrist-worn heart rate monitors, particularly during moderate exercise. The results suggest that these devices should be used with caution for individuals relying on them to track fitness or stay within safe heart rate thresholds.
Research suggests strenuous exercise has no significant impact on labor duration or risk of premature birth. Exercise is found to reduce excessive birthweight and lower the risk of C-section births. However, more research is needed in elite athletes to fully understand its effects during pregnancy.
Aerobic exercise improves glycemic control and reduces insulin requirements in T1D patients. The study found that physically active patients had more responsible behavior in monitoring their glucose levels, suggesting an educational program addressing diet, insulin injecting monitoring, and exercise could be highly advantageous.
Researchers found that older adults who completed cognitive training programs were more likely to continue driving, with increased chances after additional divided-attention training. Over 2,000 adults aged 65 or older participated in the study.
Researchers found that four factors - perceived competence, social interaction, novel experiences, and physical exertion - trigger positive emotions in exercise. Enjoyment is a key factor among regular exercisers, leading to increased motivation and adherence.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Physiology found that taking nitrate supplements alongside Sprint Interval Training can improve athletic performance in low-oxygen conditions. After just five weeks, the muscle fiber composition changed with enhanced nitrate intake during training in these conditions.
New research challenges the use of ice baths after exercise, suggesting they may not reduce inflammation in muscles. The study found no significant benefit from cold water immersion on muscle inflammation compared to active recovery.
Research from the University of Exeter found that physical activity in natural environments provides health benefits worth £2.2 billion annually to the English adult population. Over 1.3 billion green exercise visits occur each year, with examples including dog walking and outdoor swimming.
A new study found that most ARDS survivors experience physical decline in the five years after hospital discharge. Older age and pre-existing illnesses are key risk factors for this decline. The study's findings highlight the need for targeted post-hospital therapy to support these high-risk patients.
A study led by Georgia State University found that incorporating laughter into a physical activity program can improve the mental health, aerobic endurance, and confidence of older adults. The LaughActive program, which includes playful simulated laughter exercises, also increases motivation to participate in exercise.
Researchers assess safety, tolerability, and clinical use of graded aerobic treadmill testing in young athletes with sports-related concussion. The study confirms physiological recovery in 63 patients and improves symptoms in most cases.
A Loyola Medicine study found female triathletes experience high rates of stress urinary and anal incontinence, with nearly a quarter also screening positive for the female athlete triad. Researchers highlight the need for women to seek medical care if symptoms persist.
A Mayo Clinic study found a significant relationship between stress levels and poor quality of life in medical center employees. The researchers emphasize the importance of engaging employees into wellness programs to reduce burnout and improve overall well-being.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that regular exercise can lead to lower healthcare costs, even for those with established cardiovascular disease. Participants who met exercise guidelines had average yearly medical costs $500 lower than those who didn't.
A recent study by UT Southwestern Medical Center suggests that electric fans can exacerbate heat issues for seniors, increasing their heart rates and internal temperatures. The researchers found that when elderly patients used fans to cool down in a hot environment, their body temperature rose instead of falling.