Research on physical activity and how it affects health. Covers running and step counts, disease risk reduction, fitness tracking, and exercise physiology.
Regular aerobic exercise can slow or reverse the decline of maximal aerobic power, delaying biological aging and maintaining functional independence. By conserving maximal oxygen intake, individuals may retain their physical abilities longer, reducing the risk of serious disease and improving overall health.
A recent study published in Arthritis Care and Research journal found that regular exercise, specifically the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program, significantly improves and manages arthritis pain. Participants reported a decrease in pain and fatigue, an increase in upper and lower extremity function, and increased strength after par...
A recent study found that maternal exercise during pregnancy has a positive impact on fetal cardiac programming, reducing fetal heart rate variability. The research also revealed lower heart rates among fetuses exposed to maternal exercise compared to non-exercising mothers.
A new study found that young children who lead inactive lifestyles are five-to-six times more likely to develop metabolic syndrome, a condition linked to heart disease and diabetes. The study tracked the same group of children over time, measuring factors such as body mass, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, to show the importance...
A recent study found that obese adolescents burn fat at lower intensities than their lean counterparts during exercise. The researchers identified the optimal intensity levels required to maximize fat oxidation in both groups, with the lean boys reaching a higher VO2 peak and burning more fat at higher intensities.
Research published in BMC Neuroscience found that physical activity from juvenile age delays the onset of specific motor deficits in a mouse model of Huntington's disease. The study suggests that benefits stem from stimulation of neuronal receptors and other molecules that prolong normal function and delay motor deficits.
Regular Tai Chi Chuan exercise improves T cell helper function in patients with type 2 diabetes by increasing T-bet transcription factor and IL-12 production, suggesting a potential therapeutic effect. The study also found improved glycemic control, reduced inflammation, and enhanced immune response.
A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology suggests that identical twins with the same lifestyle can have different body weights due to infinite number of possible body weight solutions. This challenges traditional understanding of body weight change, suggesting it may be influenced by multiple factors beyond diet and exercise.
UK scientists identify 25 new biodiversity threats and opportunities until 2050, prioritizing research to mitigate surprise issues like GM crops. Horizon scanning aims to inform policy decisions, cutting the need for last-minute fixes on foreseeable problems.
A recent study by Indiana University found that overweight but active men experienced a 24% improvement in vascular function after exercise, compared to a 32% decrease in inactive individuals. The research highlights the importance of daily physical activity in maintaining cardiovascular health, even if weight loss is not immediate.
Reducing the nogo receptor in the brain results in stronger brain signaling in mice, effectively boosting signal strength between synapses. The findings suggest that enhancing synaptic plasticity can partially counter the effects of an injury like stroke or traumatic brain injury.
Regular aerobic exercise significantly decreases oxidative stress levels and improves cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women. The study found that both HRT users and non-users benefited equally from the exercise program, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
A new study published in JAMA found that a lack of regular physical activity can cause many diseases, with effects visible within two weeks. The researchers discovered that reducing daily physical activity led to higher glucose and fat levels in the blood, increasing the risk of chronic diseases.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that neighborhoods with higher levels of poverty, lower education, and more female-headed families tend to have lower exercise levels. Social and economic factors outside of individual control can impact physical activity.
A three-year study found people with severe white matter changes are twice as likely to score poorly on walking and balance tests. Exercise may have the potential to reduce the risk of these problems, which can lead to hospitalization and nursing home placement.
Researchers found that even short periods of exercise (10-30 minutes) can significantly improve quality of life for postmenopausal women, including social functioning and general health. The study's results support the idea that any amount of physical activity is beneficial, even if it's just a little bit every day.
A study published in JAMA found that individuals who received monthly tips from trained counselors regained less weight than those using a custom-built weight-loss Web site or self-directed approach. The average weight regain was 9 pounds for the counseling group, compared to 12 pounds for both the web site and self-directed groups.
A new study found that regular low-intensity exercise can significantly reduce fatigue symptoms and increase energy levels by 20 percent in sedentary people. The researchers discovered that low-intensity exercise is more effective than moderate-intensity exercise in reducing fatigue, with a 65 percent reduction compared to 49 percent.
Research at the University of Bath found that acne sufferers are less likely to participate in sport or exercise due to skin anxiety, leading to lower self-esteem and a poorer quality of life. The study aims to develop new ways to encourage acne sufferers to stay physically active.
A recent study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy found that patients with fibromyalgia who participated in supervised training exercises in warm water experienced reduced symptoms and improved health-related quality of life. This cost-effective approach may offer a promising alternative to traditional treatments.
The American Physical Society (APS) and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) report warns that the US is losing its expertise in rapidly identifying nuclear materials. The pipeline for replacing these specialists is almost empty, and university programs in radiochemistry have been dwindling.
The study found that alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and exercises are effective in managing most common neck pain. The Task Force also recommends a grading system to classify neck pain, with Grade 1 being mild and Grade 4 indicating serious pathology.
Researchers found that using HEPA filters for two days significantly improved microvascular function in healthy, non-smoking elderly individuals. The study suggests that indoor air filtration could be a feasible means of reducing cardiovascular risk by removing ultrafine, fine and coarse air particles.
Research suggests that powerful individuals are less receptive to new ideas when they feel confident in their own opinions. Conversely, when made to feel powerless, they pay closer attention and weigh arguments more carefully. By temporarily reducing power, leaders can increase the likelihood of persuasion.
Researchers found that leaky muscle cells cause fatigue in both marathoners and heart failure patients. An experimental drug that plugs the leak may provide relief from exhaustion for those with chronic heart failure.
A study by Paul Williams found that quitting exercise can lead to significant weight gain, especially at lower intensity levels. Resuming exercise after an hiatus is often not enough to reverse the weight gain, highlighting the importance of consistent and year-round physical activity to maintain a healthy weight.
A study by Dr. Catherine Sabiston found that breast cancer survivors who participated in dragon boat racing reported significantly improved physical and mental health. The social aspect of the activity provided a sense of community and empowerment, helping women cope with post-recovery trauma.
A recent UMass Medical School study found that over 80% of patients diagnosed with coronary heart disease do not improve their diet one year after diagnosis. The study used the Alternative Health Eating Index to assess dietary quality and found that only a small percentage of patients met recommended daily intake levels for fruits, veg...
A new study found that people's personality types affect their ability to exercise self-control. Promotion-focused individuals tend to do better when adopting goal-pursuit strategies that fit their needs, while prevention-focused individuals fare better with vigilance strategies. This research has important implications for consumer we...
A yearlong study showed that overweight individuals who lose a moderate amount of weight experience improved heart health, regardless of whether it's achieved through calorie restriction or exercise. The researchers found that participants' hearts regained some of the elasticity characteristic of younger heart tissue, allowing them to ...
Research found that people who drink moderate amounts of alcohol and are physically active have a lower risk of death from heart disease than those who don’t drink or exercise. Moderate drinkers and regular exercisers had significantly lower risks compared to non-drinkers and inactive individuals.
A new study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that specific strength training exercises led to significant prolonged relief of neck muscle pain in women. In contrast, general fitness training resulted in only a small amount of pain reduction. The study suggests that supervised high-intensity dynamic strength training may be ...
The study evaluated the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program's effects on managing arthritis through exercise. The results showed significant improvements in pain, fatigue, and physical function, with continued benefits when participants maintained program participation at home.
A new study published by Temple University found that adding a brisk walking routine can reduce psychological symptoms like anxiety, stress and depression in postmenopausal women. The research suggests moderate-paced exercise can help maintain mental health throughout the menopausal transition.
A study found that people with untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have weakened heart rate recovery after maximal exercise, suggesting an imbalance in autonomic control. This may be an early clinical sign of OSA progression.
Researchers explore how genes, neurotransmitters, and brain function impact athletic performance and endurance. Studies reveal that certain genetic variations and mental state can significantly enhance physical abilities.
A study published in European Journal of Applied Physiology found a consistent correlation between actual and perceived exertion in people of all fitness levels. Researchers say an individual's sense of hard work matches the level of physical exertion measured by heart-rate and oxygen uptake.
A recent study of 213 elderly adults found that adherence to moderate exercise improved their physical function. Participants who exercised for 150 minutes or more per week showed greater improvements in walking speed, strength, flexibility, and balance.
A new study from Duke University Medical Center shows that even a modest amount of brisk walking weekly can trim waistlines and cut the risk of metabolic syndrome. The research found that participants who exercised for at least 30 minutes a day, six days a week, saw significant benefits in reduced MetS scores.
A study using the Transtheoretical Model found that over 60% of OSA patients were at pre-action stages, with less than 30% reporting maintenance. The model suggests that increasing exercise and reducing body mass may be a practical route for managing mild sleep apnea.
A NewYork-Presbyterian study found that adults over 65 can improve their health through simple lifestyle changes, reducing risk for diseases such as obesity and osteoporosis. Adhering to a low-calorie diet and regular exercise can help stave off the diseases of aging.
A new study published in BMC Medicine suggests that patients with chronic patellofemoral syndrome may not benefit from arthroscopic surgery, instead finding relief through therapeutic exercise. The randomized controlled trial compared the efficacy of arthroscopy and exercise in reducing knee pain and improving mobility.
A Yale University study found that children follow adults' actions faithfully, even when they are unnecessary, leading to confusion and difficulties in learning. The research suggests that children's ability to imitate can actually hinder their learning process if they observe an adult performing inefficient behavior.
A new study in Journal of Consumer Research found that optimistic thinking about future goals can lead to detrimental decisions, such as overindulging in unhealthy snacks. In contrast, focusing on commitment to a goal results in more consistent actions with its attainment.
Research finds that elite rowers show a significant reduction in lactoferrin concentration after five months of sedentary lifestyle, but experience an increase in salivary proteins following moderate and high-intensity exercise. This study aims to test the effectiveness of nutritional interventions on the immune system.
Researchers at Yale University discovered a novel gene, VGF, that plays a crucial role in exercise-induced antidepressant effects. The study found that enhancing VGF expression can function like a powerful anti-depressant, providing a potential new treatment target for depression.
A new model regarding physical activity recommendations is emerging, highlighting the importance of non-exercise activities in countering health risks. Researchers found that sitting for extended periods can have negative effects on fat and cholesterol metabolism, while standing can burn double the number of calories.
A comprehensive exercise program incorporating walking, strength training, and stretching improved daily function and reduced symptoms in women with fibromyalgia. The benefits were enhanced when combined with targeted education on managing the disease.
Two studies found that exercise training increases the growth of new muscle cells and blood vessels in weakened muscles of people with heart failure. The studies showed significant improvements in muscle cell regeneration and vasculogenesis, leading to better health status and increased exercise capacity.
The UK faces a growing obesity crisis with alarming statistics showing a 30-50% increase in obesity rates over the past decade. Experts call for a comprehensive approach to tackle the epidemic, including promoting healthy eating and exercise, and investing in meaningful interventions.
A study found that supervised exercise programs resulted in varying weight loss outcomes due to compensatory responses such as increased hunger and food intake. The research suggests that individual variability plays a crucial role in weight management, highlighting the need for tailored approaches to address differences in physiologic...
A systematic review found that 44% of activity-based trials and 50% of psychological studies reported significant results in reducing fatigue among cancer patients. However, the effects were considered modest, and more research is needed to determine their effectiveness.
A study of 27,000 women found that regular physical activity can significantly lower cardiovascular risk by 40% over 11 years. The research highlights the importance of exercise in reducing inflammation and blood pressure as key contributors to cardioprotection.
Overweight children who exercised for just three months showed improvements in executive function and reduced their diabetes risk. The study found that regular physical activity can enhance cognitive development and reduce insulin resistance.
Research suggests that perceived safety is a significant barrier to physical activity among low-income individuals. Women who feel unsafe at night take significantly fewer steps, compromising their health. The findings underscore the importance of addressing safety concerns to encourage exercise and improve overall well-being in disadv...
Research finds that women in Botswana and Swaziland who experience food insufficiency are nearly twice as likely to have high-risk sex. Protecting access to food may decrease vulnerability to HIV infection, says a new study published in PLoS Medicine.
Researchers have reviewed literature on stress tests to determine the most effective strategies for physicians. The study highlights the importance of choosing the right stress test to accurately detect coronary artery disease, emphasizing the role of pharmacologic agents and exercise EKGs in maximizing sensitivity and specificity.
The US Marine Corps has selected Oregon-made training suits for its runners, with the University of Oregon's environmental chamber playing a crucial role in the testing process. The new suits, developed by InSport Inc., were found to be superior to an alternative design in terms of comfort and moisture management.
A new study by the University of Exeter found that British adults now prioritize moderate activities like walking over vigorous exercise. This shift in attitudes threatens the nation's health and experts are calling for evidence-based guidelines to promote vigorous activity.
Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia argue that 'mumming,' a centuries-old ritual where villagers disguise themselves and threaten violence, is a way to communicate trust and trustworthiness. In this tradition, participants make themselves vulnerable to prove their commitment to each other.