Exercise training in older men and the effect on brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
- Conditions
- AgeingNeuroplasticityNeurological - Studies of the normal brain and nervous systemPhysical Medicine / Rehabilitation - Other physical medicine / rehabilitation
- Registration Number
- ACTRN12622001477718
- Lead Sponsor
- Charles Sturt University
- Brief Summary
The research question was to evaluate whether 12 weeks of combined aerobic and resistance training would alter neuroplasticity of the brain by measuring the serum brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in older men. An additional question was whether the 12 week training would alter the ability to complete a self-paced cycling trial. Previous work suggests that brain neuroplasticity would be altered but there is no indication that it would alter the self paced endurance ability. To evaluate these questions eight healthy sedentary older men aged between 52.5-63.7 years completed the training and exercise cycling trials. The results showed that neuroplasticity was altered since BDNF decreased significantly after 12 weeks of training. However, there was no improvement in self-paced cycling performance although the physiological strain to complete the performance was improved. The results are limited to the age group and the specific self-paced exercise protocol. physiological strain for a comparable performance.
- Detailed Description
Not available
Recruitment & Eligibility
- Status
- Completed
- Sex
- Male
- Target Recruitment
- 8
Sedentary males aged 50 - 64 were eligible to participate who had not participated in any regular exercise for more than 6 months. Healthy non-smokers and free of any musculoskeletal injuries.
Recent contraindications to exercise, medications contraindicated to exercise, musculoskeletal injury causing inability to exercise, smoking history.
Study & Design
- Study Type
- Interventional
- Study Design
- Not specified
- Primary Outcome Measures
Name Time Method
- Secondary Outcome Measures
Name Time Method