Effects of exercise interventions on cognitive functions in healthy populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis
SUMMARY: Exercise enhances all cognitive functions, showing notable benefits across age groups, with strength and endurance training both effective. KEY FINDINGS: Meta-analysis reviewed 54 trials with 6277 participants on exercise and cognitive functions. Exercise improves global cognition, executive function, memory, attention, and processing. Benefits are strongest in older adults but evident in all age groups. Strength training has the highest effect size for brain functioning. Endurance training is also effective and superior in some cognitive areas. Cognitive improvements are present across diverse exercise types. Exercise impacts both physical and mental well-being. The meta-analysis includes a wide range of cognitive domains. Results are significant for healthy adults and children too. Regular exercise is essential for overall personal development. CONCLUSION: Exercise benefits all cognitive functions across different age groups. Strength training shows the greatest overall improvement in brain function. Endurance training excels in specific cognitive subdomains. Both physical and mental health are enhanced by regular exercise. Comprehensive cognitive improvements highlight exercise's broad efficacy. Reference