Life Neuroscience

Regular physical activity can encourage various changes in brain structure and function at any point in life. This review synthesises findings on the brain health and cognitive/biological benefits of sustained physical activity. Physically active individuals have higher levels of neurotrophic factors, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which positively affect neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and neuronal viability. Exercise promotes blood circulation to the brain, reduces the rate of free-radical (oxidative) damage, and modulates inflammatory activity in the brain, collectively resulting in a more neuroprotective state. Structurally, regular exercise has been shown to positively impact both the volume of the hippocampus and the integrity of white matter tracts involved in memory formation and in pathways needed for rapid brain communication. Functionally, these neurobiological changes manifest as enhanced cognition, including greater attention, improved executive function, faster, more efficient processing, and better learning. It is crucial to understand that exercise has been shown to decrease neurodegeneration that is associated with ageing, as well as diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Besides its preventative benefits, exercise is also used as a therapeutic strategy with other clinical populations, including those with depression and anxiety and cognitive impairment. Additionally, studies suggest that the timing, intensity, and type of exercise may have differential effects on specific cognitive domains and corresponding neural mechanisms. Although the body of evidence is expanding, gaps remain in understanding mechanisms across populations and in optimal exercise prescriptions. In general, physical activity is a non-pharmacological, low-cost, and easily available option for improving cognitive health and function. The incorporation of exercise and activity in daily routines and public health will likely have a considerable impact on the cognitive and neurological health of the general population at all ages.