Research on physical activity and how it affects health. Covers running and step counts, disease risk reduction, fitness tracking, and exercise physiology.
A national study reveals women are less likely to get at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, increasing their risk of developing metabolic syndrome. The study found that women got only about 18 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise daily, compared to men who averaged 30 minutes.
A new breast cancer rehabilitation model proposes a prospective surveillance approach to address physical issues, promoting reduced impairment, improved function, and increased exercise participation. The model aims to integrate disease treatment with rehabilitation and exercise interventions for better survivorship care.
A formerly obese physician shares his experience with weight loss and finds that traditional calorie reduction and exercise methods may not be effective. Bariatric surgery played a crucial role in his success, helping him shed 110 pounds from an original weight of 320.
Researchers found that having a sibling with a stroke increases the risk of ischemic strokes by 64%, particularly in full siblings and half-siblings. The study suggests that lifestyle habits such as diet, exercise, and blood pressure control can be modified to reduce this risk.
Case Western Reserve researchers identify Kruppel-like Factor 15 (KLF15) as a key player in the body's ability to burn fat during exercise, increasing muscle force production. The discovery sheds light on the molecular mechanisms behind exercise benefits and may lead to therapeutic strategies for metabolic disorders.
A study found that experienced Tai Chi practitioners have better arterial compliance and knee muscle strength than their non-practitioner counterparts. This suggests that Tai Chi may be a suitable exercise for older people to improve both cardiovascular function and body strength, without compromising arterial health.
Researchers found that among patients given an appointment for a follow-up exercise stress test, 70 percent actually underwent the test compared to 31 percent without pre-scheduled appointments. Patients with pre-scheduled appointments also waited significantly less time for the test.
Endocannabinoids play a crucial role in motivating human exercise behavior, suggesting that natural selection drove the evolution of endurance activities. The study found that exercising mammals release pleasurable endocannabinoids in response to high-intensity exercise.
Researchers found that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and physical exercise can significantly reduce menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes and vaginal dryness, in breast cancer patients undergoing treatment. The interventions also improved sexuality and physical functioning, with positive effects still apparent after six months.
Researchers found that lengthy spaceflight affects cardiovascular responses, but the intensive exercise routines on these missions keep mechanisms well-prepared for return to Earth. The study tested six astronauts on long-term missions aboard the International Space Station.
A structured exercise regimen reduced physical therapy visits by 40% in workers' compensation patients after arthroscopic meniscectomy. The study supports the implementation of independent exercise protocols to reduce therapy costs without compromising patient outcomes.
A first-of-its-kind study by Indiana University researchers confirms that exercise can lead to female orgasm without sex or fantasies. The study found that women who reported exercising-induced orgasms reported feeling self-consciousness but not fantasizing during their experiences.
Researchers found that overweight and obese adults who used electronic devices with daily feedback messages on diet and exercise had better treatment adherence. After six months, the group with daily feedback messages lost over a 5% more weight compared to those using a paper diary.
A study by University of Alberta researcher Marianne Clark explores women's experiences of changing in public change rooms, finding that societal beauty standards and lack of privacy contribute to anxiety and self-consciousness. The research highlights the need for more inclusive and comfortable facilities for diverse body types.
A study presented at the American Heart Association's 2012 Scientific Sessions found that cooling the palms of the hands during exercise improved exercise tolerance and cardiovascular fitness in obese women. Holding a cold bottle or using a cooling device may help exercisers work out longer and stick with their regimen.
Researchers discovered that exercise alters DNA molecules within muscles, leading to improved strength and metabolism. The study also found that caffeine can mimic this effect, suggesting a potential alternative to traditional exercise for some individuals.
A study by Oregon State University researcher Melinda Manore found that no single supplement results in significant weight loss, while many have detrimental health benefits. She emphasizes the importance of exercise and a balanced diet, such as eating whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.
A recent study found that fitness programs for minority adults are often culturally insensitive, leading to modest improvements in fitness but limited long-term effects. Researchers call for more culturally tailored approaches to increase the effectiveness of exercise interventions.
Patients who underwent mitral valve repair along with bypass surgery had improved exercise capacity and reduced heart size compared to those who received bypass surgery alone. Blood markers associated with heart failure also showed improvement for dual-procedure patients.
A recent trial published in BMC Medicine suggests that rest and exercise are equally effective in alleviating lower back pain due to Modic changes. The study found no significant difference in pain reduction between the two groups after a 10-week trial and one-year follow-up.
Researchers found that mild dehydration caused headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating in women, while men experienced fatigue, tension, and anxiety. The studies highlight the importance of staying hydrated throughout the day, not just during exercise or physical activity.
A two-year clinical trial showed that weight training significantly improved motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease compared to stretching and balance exercises. Weight training led to a 7.3 point improvement in UPRDS scores after two years, while fitness counts group returned to baseline scores.
A study of over 11,000 pregnant women found that dog ownership was associated with regular brisk walking and improved physical activity levels. While dog walking alone cannot reduce obesity rates, it may be part of a broader strategy to encourage exercise and healthy eating during pregnancy.
Researchers found that motivation to exercise changes on a weekly basis and is linked to behavior. Consistently strong intentions are key to following through on physical activity goals.
Research shows exercise in early 20s improves bone development and may reduce fractures later in life. Regular physical activity between ages 19-24 increases bone density, especially in hips, arms, and legs.
Researchers found that 12-weeks of high-speed power training improves muscular power in older people. The study showed significant gains in neuromuscular and cardiovascular function, as well as improved functional capacity and quality of life. Power training is a promising measure for preventing or reducing loss of functional capacity ...
Researchers found that people who are more physically active report greater levels of excitement and enthusiasm compared to those who are less active. Daily physical activity, even if short in duration, can provide a feel-good effect, motivating individuals to stay active and continue their exercise program.
A study of 107 individuals with diagnosed osteoarthritis in the knee found that a DVD-based exercise program significantly improved pain and physical function, but did not affect osteoarthritis progression. Video-based home exercise programs can enhance adherence and improve life quality for patients living with knee osteoarthritis.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that a tailored Tai Chi training program significantly improved postural stability and walking ability in Parkinson's disease patients. The program resulted in reduced falls and demonstrated potential as an add-on to current physical therapies.
A study from the University of New South Wales found that exercise alone can almost completely reverse the adverse metabolic effects passed on to offspring by their overweight mothers. The reversal was most pronounced in juveniles who exercised and consumed a low-fat diet.
Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered that exercise can trigger adult stem cells in muscle, releasing growth factors that promote muscle regeneration. The findings may provide a link between exercise and muscle health, with potential applications for rehabilitation and preventing age-related muscle loss.
A new study published in the BMJ Open found that exercise ECGs have benefits beyond diagnosis, including clarifying symptoms and engaging patients in the diagnostic process. The test can facilitate communication between clinicians and patients, providing reassurance on exercise capacity and tolerance.
A recent study published in The Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that intermittent exercise with low oxygen concentrations significantly improves glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. Exercise under hypoxic conditions provides greater improvements than intermittent exercise alone.
A study by UCSF researchers found that vigorous exercise is linked to increased expression of genes thought to prevent cancer progression. The study identified nearly 200 genes in healthy prostate tissue that are more active among men who exercised vigorously for at least three hours a week.
A study by James Burton and team found that stressed supervisors who engage in moderate exercise report less abusive behavior towards their subordinates. The research suggests that wellness programs with exercise components can help smooth out relationships between supervisors and employees.
UT Southwestern researchers found that exercise stimulates autophagy, a process that degrades damaged cellular components. This discovery suggests that autophagy plays a crucial role in the protective effects of exercise on blood sugar metabolism and may contribute to other health benefits.
A new study published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics found that regular exercise can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms in patients with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Women who underwent six weeks of strength or aerobic exercise training experienced remission rates higher than those in a control group.
A new study found that virtual-reality enhanced interactive exercise, such as exergames, yields greater cognitive benefits than traditional exercise for older adults, with a 23% reduction in progression to mild cognitive impairment. Interactive features like competition and 3D scenery may contribute to these benefits.
A team of researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has isolated a natural hormone from muscle cells that triggers key health benefits of exercise. The protein, called irisin, has been shown to improve glucose tolerance and reduce white fat, promoting the development of 'good' brown fat.
A global study found that physical activity during work and leisure time significantly lowers the risk of heart attacks. The study also linked ownership of a car and a television to an increased risk of heart attacks, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
A compound called AICAR has been found to prevent heat-induced deaths in mice with a gene mutation that makes them sensitive to heat. The study's findings suggest that AICAR could protect young athletes and soldiers from heat-related illnesses, potentially saving lives during exercise.
Regular moderate exercise reduces the risk of catching respiratory infections like colds by up to a third, thanks to long-term improvement in immunity. However, prolonged strenuous exercise increases the likelihood of illness, making athletes more susceptible to upper respiratory tract infections.
Researchers found that women who wrote about their most important values lost more weight than those who didn't. This is because reflecting on core values can boost self-integrity and lead to healthier habits.
A new downloadable tool from the University of Colorado Cancer Center guides cancer survivors through a personalized exercise plan, helping them set goals and track progress. The program aims to overcome common challenges faced by cancer patients, including fatigue and self-doubt.
A mindfulness-based group intervention significantly reduced stress levels and fatigue in patients with rheumatoid joint disease, with lasting improvements also seen. The study found no comparable reductions in the comparison group, highlighting the potential benefits of mindfulness strategies for managing arthritis-related distress.
Researchers are conducting a study to examine the effects of exercise and computerized memory training on executive function in people with Parkinson's disease. The goal is to determine if these interventions can slow or reverse memory changes and improve cognitive function.
A new study found that exercising at a very high intensity, but for just 30 minutes a week, can lower blood sugar concentrations and reduce post-meal spikes. This short, high-intensity training regimen increased skeletal mitochondrial capacity, a marker of metabolic health.
A new study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that brief high-intensity workouts can rapidly lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetics. The study, conducted on eight participants, showed improved glycemic control and increased skeletal muscle mitochondrial capacity.
A 15-minute walk can cut snacking on chocolate at work in half, regardless of task difficulty or stress levels. Researchers found that employees who took a short break consumed an average of 15g, equivalent to a small 'treat size', compared to 28g for those who didn't exercise.
Researchers found that extreme endurance exercise can cause damage to the right ventricle of the heart, which can lead to arrhythmias and reduced performance. While the damage is reversible in most athletes, five out of 40 studied showed permanent scarring, suggesting a susceptibility to long-term effects.
Researchers discovered that nerve impulses from muscles inhibit motor areas in the brain, leading to muscle fatigue. The insular cortex plays a key role in regulating muscle performance, with increased activity preceding fatigue.
University of Missouri researchers say exercise is beneficial for breast cancer survivors and patients with lymphedema, outweighing risks. Patients at risk can exercise without increasing the risk of developing lymphedema, according to a new literature review.
Researchers reviewed 145 risk scores for type 2 diabetes, identifying seven effective models that can predict high risk with reasonable accuracy. Using these tools could prevent up to half of all cases of diabetes by promoting lifestyle changes and medication.
A new study from the University of New Hampshire found that older runners' running economy is no different than that of younger runners, but maintaining this efficiency comes at a higher cost, including lower VO2 max and maximal heart rates. Researchers recommend strength training to minimize age-related decline in performance.
A new study reveals that increased physical activity is linked to improved diet quality, suggesting that exercise can encourage healthier eating habits. The research also highlights the importance of social policy in promoting physical activity among the population to prevent obesity.
A recent study conducted by Concordia University found that depressed individuals are twice as likely to have a heart attack compared to non-depressed individuals. The study also showed that depressed individuals take longer to recover their normal heart rate after exercise, indicating a dysfunctional stress response.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association finds that racial disparities in diet, exercise, and weight are more closely related to differences in socioeconomic status than nutrition knowledge. People with lower socioeconomic status are more likely to be overweight, regardless of racial background.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that women who skipped mid-morning snacking lost more weight compared to those who snacked. Healthy snacks can aid in weight loss, but timing is crucial.
A new study reveals that physical activity is linked to an improvement in diet quality, leading to more successful weight loss treatments. Exercise also modifies the brain's executive functions, enabling better control of appetite and food choices.
A new study found that 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week significantly improves sleep quality, with participants feeling less sleepy during the day. The study's results support mounting research linking regular exercise to various health benefits, including improved daytime alertness.