Researchers here conduct a meta-analysis of clinical trial results for the effects of resistance exercise on cognitive function. As might be expected given what is known of the effects of exercise on health, the amassed data strongly indicates that programs of resistance exercise improve cognitive function in older people. Mechanistically, it is known that exercise reduces inflammation, increases blood flow to the brain, improves immune function, improves mitochondrial function, increases autophagy, and touches on a range of downstream effects of those changes that may positively impact the state of the aging brain.
Resistance exercise has recently gained attention as a promising strategy to promote neuroplasticity and mitigate cognitive deterioration; however, evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) remains inconsistent. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of resistance exercise on cognitive function in older adults.
17 RCTs (n=739) met the inclusion criteria. Pooled analyses showed that resistance training significantly improved overall cognitive function (standardized mean difference, SMD = 0.40), working memory (SMD = 0.44), verbal learning and memory (mean difference, MD = 3.01), and spatial memory span (SMD = 0.63), whereas effects on processing speed, executive function, and attention were not significant. Heterogeneity and publication bias analyses indicated stable and unbiased results. The magnitude of improvement appears to depend on age and exercise parameters, suggesting a potential dose-response relationship.
