Exercise and Human Aging: Physiological and Psychological Functions

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Aging is a normal physiological process, accompanied by physical and psychological changes. Decline in physical function generally includes muscle loss, cardiovascular function, and weakened immune capacity. Psychologically, aging is accompanied by cognitive decline, susceptibility to depression, and weakened emotional regulation ability. A growing number of studies have shown that exercise may play a key role in alleviating these aging-related changes and improve quality of life in the elderly. Exercise, especially strength training, has been shown to be very effective in combating sarcopenia. For example, resistance training using dumbbells or elastic bands can stimulate muscle protein synthesis, thereby increasing muscle quantity and quality. In this topic, we welcome the submission of cross-sectional studies, longitudinal studies, randomized controlled trials, narrative and systematic reviews, and related analyses of the direct or potential effects of exercise on physical and psychological function in aging.

Dr. Samuel Da Silva Aguiar
Dr. Ismael Perez-Suarez
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Geriatrics geriatrics	2.1	3.4	2016	27.3 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
International Journal of Molecular Sciences ijms	4.9	9.0	2000	17.8 Days	CHF 2900	Submit
Life life	3.4	6.0	2011	16.6 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Sports sports	2.9	4.1	2013	19.9 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Neurology International neurolint	3.0	4.8	2009	21.5 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Obesities obesities	1.3	1.8	2021	18.6 Days	CHF 1200	Submit

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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23 pages, 737 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Napping on Cognitive and Physical Performance in Sleep-Deprived Elite Kung-Fu Athletes

by Anis Saddoud, Mohamed Frikha, Mehdi Chlif, Abdulmalek K. Bursais and Anwar Al-Nuaim

Life 2026, 16(2), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16020253 - 2 Feb 2026

Viewed by 167

Abstract

Background: Total sleep deprivation (TSD) negatively affects athletic performance by impairing mood, anaerobic performance, and decision-making in martial arts athletes. This study examined whether a 45 min nap can alleviate deficits in mood, anaerobic performance, and decision-making caused by TSD in elite Kung-Fu [...] Read more.

Background: Total sleep deprivation (TSD) negatively affects athletic performance by impairing mood, anaerobic performance, and decision-making in martial arts athletes. This study examined whether a 45 min nap can alleviate deficits in mood, anaerobic performance, and decision-making caused by TSD in elite Kung-Fu athletes. Methods: Twenty-four elite male Kung-Fu athletes (age: 20.67 ± 1.76 years) participated in four randomised conditions: normal sleep, without sleep deprivation + nap, total sleep deprivation (36 h awake), and TSD + nap. Mood states were assessed in terms of the POMS-f, perceptual responses, decision-making via video-based tasks, barrage test, anaerobic performance through vertical and horizontal jumps, and isometric strength. Results: Sleep deprivation significantly affected mood, with vigour dropping by 53.8% (p < 0.001), impaired physical performance, with vertical jump declining from 36.80 ± 6.47 cm to 33.23 ± 6.03 cm (p < 0.001), and reduced cognitive function, with decision accuracy declining from 24.00 ± 2.16% to 18.44 ± 2.24% (p < 0.001) and reaction time increasing from 0.58 ± 0.08 s to 0.93 ± 0.13 s (p < 0.001). Strategic napping significantly enhanced cognitive recovery, with decision accuracy increasing by 14.1% (p < 0.001) and reaction time improving by 16.1% (p < 0.001). Physical performance showed modest gains, with vertical jump height increasing by 2.4% (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Strategic 45 min naps offer superior cognitive recovery compared to physical recovery in sleep-deprived elite Kung-Fu athletes, suggesting that coaches should incorporate strategic napping to enhance decision-making abilities during competitions involving sleep deprivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Exercise and Human Aging: Physiological and Psychological Functions)

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18 pages, 793 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Sprint Interval Training on Brain Fatigue Resistance in Competitive Skateboarders: Evidence from EEG, HRV, and VAS Measures

by Mulin Yang, Yuqiang Guo and Kewei Zhao

Life 2026, 16(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16010025 - 24 Dec 2025

Viewed by 670

Abstract

Purpose: This preliminary study examined the associations between a 6-week sprint interval training (SIT) program and mental-fatigue (MF) related neurophysiological and subjective indicators in elite skateboarders. Methods: In this preliminary study, a single-group, repeated-measures design was employed. Twelve elite skateboarders completed a 6-week [...] Read more.

Purpose: This preliminary study examined the associations between a 6-week sprint interval training (SIT) program and mental-fatigue (MF) related neurophysiological and subjective indicators in elite skateboarders. Methods: In this preliminary study, a single-group, repeated-measures design was employed. Twelve elite skateboarders completed a 6-week sprint interval training (SIT) program. Mental fatigue was assessed at three time points—pre-intervention (Week 0), mid-intervention (Week 3), and post-intervention (Week 6)—using a standardized 60 min Stroop task, with post-task EEG, HRV, and VAS measures collected to characterize neurophysiological and subjective responses. Results: Across the intervention, EEG indices indicated higher central nervous system activation and more stable post-task neural profiles. HRV indices suggested more flexible autonomic regulation, with favorable changes in low- and high-frequency components, sympathovagal balance, and recovery-related scores, whereas baseline-related indices such as RMSSD and SDNN showed no clear change. VAS ratings showed stable MF, accompanied by increased mental exertion and motivation and reduced physical fatigue over time. Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that a 6-week SIT program may be associated with enhanced resistance to Stroop-related MF in elite skateboarders, potentially through coordinated adaptations in neural activation, autonomic regulation, and psychological factors. Future randomized studies incorporating behavioral performance and sport-specific cognitive tasks are warranted to confirm and extend these observations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Exercise and Human Aging: Physiological and Psychological Functions)

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17 pages, 1212 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Association Between the Serum Creatinine to Cystatin C Ratio, Physical Activity, and Frailty in Middle-Aged and Older Adults in China: A Nationwide Cohort Study

by Kai Song, Chuanwen Yu and Yanwei You

Life 2025, 15(12), 1832; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15121832 - 28 Nov 2025

Viewed by 756

Abstract

Background: Frailty is a major barrier to healthy ageing, yet early identification strategies remain limited. The serum creatinine-to-cystatin C ratio (sarcopenia index, SI) has emerged as a cost-effective biomarker of muscle mass and function, while physical activity (PA) is a key protective factor. [...] Read more.

Background: Frailty is a major barrier to healthy ageing, yet early identification strategies remain limited. The serum creatinine-to-cystatin C ratio (sarcopenia index, SI) has emerged as a cost-effective biomarker of muscle mass and function, while physical activity (PA) is a key protective factor. However, their combined role in predicting frailty is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the independent and joint associations of SI and PA with incident frailty in middle-aged and older adults. Methods: We analyzed 5307 participants aged ≥45 years from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS, 2011–2018). SI was calculated from serum creatinine and cystatin C levels, and PA was assessed using standardized questionnaires. Frailty was defined using a 32-item Frailty Index (FI ≥ 0.25). Cox proportional hazards models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the associations of SI and PA with incident frailty, adjusting for sociodemographic and health-related factors. Effect modification by PA was formally tested. Results: Over the follow-up period, 1483 participants developed frailty (27.9%). Higher SI was inversely associated with frailty in a dose–response manner: compared with the lowest quartile, HRs (95% CIs) were 0.84 (0.73–0.97) for Q2, 0.83 (0.72–0.96) for Q3, and 0.69 (0.59–0.82) for Q4 (p-trend < 0.001). Each 10-unit increase in SI corresponded to a 6% lower frailty risk (HR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.91–0.97). PA significantly modified this relationship (interaction p < 0.05), with the strongest protective effect of SI observed among individuals with low PA, and attenuation at higher PA levels. Conclusions: SI is independently associated with a lower risk of incident frailty, particularly among less physically active individuals. These findings support the potential use of SI as a feasible biomarker for early frailty risk stratification and highlight the importance of integrating biomarker-based screening with lifestyle interventions to prevent frailty. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Exercise and Human Aging: Physiological and Psychological Functions)

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10 pages, 286 KB  

Open AccessSystematic Review

Effects of the Prescription of Physical Exercises Mediated by Mobile Applications on the Health of Older Adults: A Systematic Review

by Débora Vanessa Santos Dias Costa, Evellin Pereira Dourado, Mayara Bocchi Fernandes, Eduardo Vignoto Fernandes and David Michel de Oliveira

Geriatrics 2025, 10(5), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics10050122 - 10 Sep 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1436

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Aging and a sedentary lifestyle aggravate hypokinetic diseases, compromising the functional capacity of older adults. Thus, the prescription of physical exercise (PE) through mobile applications (MA) has emerged as a remote and personalized alternative. However, there are still gaps in the effectiveness [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Aging and a sedentary lifestyle aggravate hypokinetic diseases, compromising the functional capacity of older adults. Thus, the prescription of physical exercise (PE) through mobile applications (MA) has emerged as a remote and personalized alternative. However, there are still gaps in the effectiveness of prescribing physical exercise via mobile apps for older people. This study aimed to analyze the effects of prescribing PE through MAs on the health of older adults. Materials and Methods: This systematic review included studies with older people (≥60 years) that used MAs to prescribe PE, published between 2014 and 2024, in Portuguese or English. The search strategy used the descriptors “older adults,” “physical exercise,” “mobile applications,” and “health,” combined with Boolean operators. The screening followed previously defined eligibility criteria regarding population, intervention, outcomes, and study design. Two independent reviewers extracted data, mediated by a third party in case of disagreement; they screened and extracted data from the PubMed and VHL/Medline databases from 2004 to 2024. Risk of bias was assessed according to levels of evidence, and the results were categorized. Results: Of the 2298 publications initially identified, 7 studies were eligible for this review, totaling 748 participants, predominantly female. The studies included prospective and observational clinical trials with older people suffering from Parkinson’s disease, cardiovascular disease, sarcopenia, and breast cancer. The findings showed favorable effects on adherence to the program (6 studies; n = 654), an increase in PE (5 studies; n = 502), and improvements in functional capacity (4 studies; n = 389), perceived quality of life (5 studies; n = 481), and muscle strength (3 studies; n = 298). Conclusions: The prescription of MA-mediated PE showed positive effects on the health of older people, indicating its viability as a complementary strategy in clinical practice or public health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Exercise and Human Aging: Physiological and Psychological Functions)

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14 pages, 1834 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Floor-to-Stand Transfers in Older Adults: Insights into Strategies and Lower Extremity Demands

by Lyndsay Stutzenberger and Tyler Whited

Geriatrics 2025, 10(5), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics10050119 - 6 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1230

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Getting up from the floor is an important functional skill for independence in older adults but is not often assessed clinically. The purpose of this study was to investigate how floor-to-stand transfer (FTS) ability is related to self-report measures and five-time sit-to-stand [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Getting up from the floor is an important functional skill for independence in older adults but is not often assessed clinically. The purpose of this study was to investigate how floor-to-stand transfer (FTS) ability is related to self-report measures and five-time sit-to-stand (5XSTS) performance, as well as compare peak joint angles during common FTS strategies and lower extremity demands between the 5XSTS and a commonly instructed FTS strategy. Methods: Thirty-four community-dwelling older adults completed self-report measures and performed the 5XSTS, a FTS in a self-selected manner, and an instructed FTS strategy. Biomechanical analysis of the lower extremities was used to determine peak joint angles, moments, and powers during study tasks. Correlation analyses were used to determine associations between FTS time and self-report scores, 5XSTS time, and lower extremity demands during the 5XSTS. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used to determine the differences in self-report measures, 5XSTS performance, and FTS time between self-selected FTS strategies. Lower extremity demands between the 5XSTS and the instructed FTS strategy were compared with Wilcoxon Signed-Rank tests. Results: Self-report measures were not associated with FTS time or different between FTS strategies. Knee flexion was greater in the roll-over compared to the quadruped strategy (p < 0.001). Ankle and hip demands were greater during the instructed FTS, and knee demands were greater during the 5XSTS (p < 0.001) when comparing the tasks. Conclusions: The study findings may improve clinical decision-making related to FTS assessment and interventions in older adults. Prescribing exercises with greater hip and ankle demand than the 5XSTS may help maximize FTS ability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Exercise and Human Aging: Physiological and Psychological Functions)

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18 pages, 2134 KB  

Open AccessCase Report

Case Report: Multifactorial Intervention for Safe Aging in Place

by Ashwini Kulkarni

Geriatrics 2025, 10(3), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics10030068 - 20 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1913

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Falls are a leading cause of morbidity in older adults, particularly those with multiple comorbidities. A multidisciplinary approach addressing physical, psychological, and environmental factors is essential for reducing fall risk and supporting aging in place. This report evaluates the effectiveness of [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Falls are a leading cause of morbidity in older adults, particularly those with multiple comorbidities. A multidisciplinary approach addressing physical, psychological, and environmental factors is essential for reducing fall risk and supporting aging in place. This report evaluates the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary, multifactorial approach in managing high fall risk in an older adult with diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis. Methods: A 72-year-old woman with a recurrent history of falls participated in an 8-week intervention as part of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) balance and falls prevention credential program. This study was conducted in Virginia Beach, USA, at the participant’s residence. A single-subject design investigation was conducted, measuring outcomes including the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest), gait speed, Timed Up and Go (TUG), fear of falling, and balance confidence at baseline and post-intervention. Results: The participant had impaired baseline values across various variables and was classified as a recurrent high-risk faller. After 8 weeks of intervention, clinically meaningful improvements with large effect sizes were observed: self-selected gait speed improved by 25%, BESTest scores improved by 50%, Falls Efficacy—International (FES I) scores improved by 26%, and Activity Balance Confidence (ABC) scores improved by 26%. No falls or adverse events occurred during the intervention period, and the patient reported enhanced mobility and safety at home. Conclusions: A tailored multidisciplinary approach effectively addressed the physical, psychological, and environmental factors contributing to high fall risk. This highlights the importance of patient-centered interventions in managing fall risk and promoting safe aging in place. Continued education, environmental adaptations, and regular follow-up are essential for long-term fall prevention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Exercise and Human Aging: Physiological and Psychological Functions)

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