Xueyang Li
Xuehong Qu
Kaixuan Shi
Yichen Yang
Jizhe Sun- Physical Education Department, China University of Geosciences Beijing, Beijing, China
The global recognition of the importance of physical exercise (PE) for human health has resulted in increased research on its effects on cortical activity. Neural oscillations, which are prominent features of brain activity, serve as crucial indicators for studying the effects of PE on brain function. Existing studies support the idea that PE modifies various types of neural oscillations. While EEG-related literature in exercise science exists, a comprehensive review of the effects of exercise specifically in healthy populations has not yet been conducted. Given the demonstrated influence of exercise on neural plasticity, particularly cortical oscillatory activity, it is imperative to consolidate research on this phenomenon. Therefore, this review aims to summarize numerous PE studies on neuromodulatory mechanisms in the brain over the past decade, covering (1) effects of resistance and aerobic training on brain health via neural oscillations; (2) how mind-body exercise affects human neural activity and cognitive functioning; (3) age-Related effects of PE on brain health and neurodegenerative disease rehabilitation via neural oscillation mechanisms; and (4) conclusion and future direction. In conclusion, the effect of PE on cortical activity is a multifaceted process, and this review seeks to comprehensively examine and summarize existing studies' understanding of how PE regulates neural activity in the brain, providing a more scientific theoretical foundation for the development of personalized PE programs and further research.
1 Introduction
The brain's plasticity refers to its ability to alter its structure and function, which is fundamental for learning, memory, and cognitive processing (Zhao et al., 2020). Physical exercise (PE) enhances neuronal activity and connectivity, thereby promoting brain plasticity through the modulation of neural networks and the facilitation of information transfer (Augusto-Oliveira et al., 2023). PE has emerged as a key modulator of brain plasticity, providing a promising strategy for mitigating cognitive decline and related diseases (Figure 1) (Voss et al., 2013). Neuronal oscillations, defined as rhythmic fluctuations in the electrical potential of groups of neurons, play a crucial role in integrating information within a common network (Rosenblum et al., 2022). These oscillations are essential drivers of interaction, communication, and information transfer in the brain and may be associated with certain mental disorders (Han, 2023; Wang et al., 2024). Non-invasive imaging techniques are significant methodologies for monitoring neural oscillations, with electroencephalography (EEG) being a commonly used tool in this field (Hosang et al., 2022). Various EEG frequency bands (delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma) are generated by distinct neuronal populations in different brain regions (Han et al., 2021a,b). Understanding the role of oscillations in neuronal function regulation is crucial for deciphering the effects of PE on the brain (Wang et al., 2023). Measuring neural oscillations before and after exercise can elucidate how physical activity influences cognitive function.
Figure 1. Summary of the effects of exercise on brain health. Effects of exercise on cognitive behavior (A). Exercise-induced changes in brain physiology (B).
Physical activity (PA) encompasses any bodily movement that results in energy expenditure (EE) through skeletal muscle contraction. Physical exercise (PE), a key element of PA, is characterized by planned, structured, and repetitive physical movements aimed at improving or maintaining various components of physical fitness (Caspersen et al., 1985; Murphy et al., 2016). It includes activities such as brisk walking, running, swimming, cycling, ball games, dancing, and weight lifting (Qiu et al., 2023). Both PA and PE enhance cognitive performance by stimulating molecular mechanisms such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) (Vedovelli et al., 2017), learning (Guo et al., 2020), and memory (Wheeler et al., 2020). Interventions focused on increasing planned and organized activities often use the term “physical exercise” instead of “physical activity” (Gallardo-Gómez et al., 2022). To improve health, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends engaging in aerobic and resistance exercises on a regular weekly basis (Weiss et al., 2023). Studies find that PE significantly influences spatial memory, working memory, and executive attention (Chaire et al., 2020). Aerobic exercise enhances spatial memory by promoting hippocampal neurogenesis and increasing BDNF levels (El-Sayes et al., 2019; Stern et al., 2019). Resistance exercise, on the other hand, strengthens executive function by increasing prefrontal cortex volume and thickness (Chow et al., 2021). Research indicates that exercise intensity plays a crucial role in cognitive benefits, with high-intensity exercise potentially offering greater advantages than low-intensity exercise (Stern et al., 2019).
Moreover, various forms of mind-body exercises, such as yoga, Tai Chi, and dance, have gained popularity in recent years. Mind-body exercise employs a mind-body approach to achieve both physical and mental benefits through physical activity (Chan et al., 2017). Additionally, specific interventions like Positive Thinking Yoga have been shown to positively impact the mental wellbeing of individuals with Parkinson's disease (Kwok et al., 2019). Ultimately, the effectiveness of exercise in preventing or treating diseases is influenced by factors such as the type, duration, frequency, and intensity of the exercise (Guo et al., 2020; Qiu et al., 2023).
Thus, this review explores the possible neural mechanisms by which PA influences brain and cognitive functions by examining and synthesizing the relevant literature to date from four perspectives: (1) effects of resistance and aerobic training on brain health via neural oscillations; (2) how mind-body exercise affects human neural activity and cognitive functioning; (3) age-Related effects of PE on brain health and neurodegenerative disease rehabilitation via neural oscillation mechanisms; and (4) conclusion and future direction.
2 Effects of resistance and aerobic training on brain health via neural oscillations
Regular exercise at moderate intensity, encompassing activities such as strength training, endurance exercises, balance routines, flexibility exercises, and coordination drills, positively contributes to all aspects of human health (Qiu et al., 2023). However, sudden high-intensity workouts in untrained individuals can trigger adverse cardiovascular events (López-Otín and Kroemer, 2021). Hence, the intensity and nature of training play pivotal roles in producing beneficial health outcomes (Qiu et al., 2023). The protective impact of both short-term and long-term exercise on the central nervous system against neurodegeneration and cerebrovascular diseases has garnered significant interest from researchers (Liu et al., 2019; Qiu et al., 2023). Neuroplasticity is central to this Vints et al. (2022). Neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to undergo functional and structural changes in response to internal or external stimuli, plays a crucial role in this context (Voss et al., 2017b).
Neuroplasticity is closely linked to neural oscillations, which interact and play a key role in brain function and adaptability (Tavano et al., 2023; Weiss et al., 2023). Oscillations are pivotal in regulating physiological processes during exercise, conscious perception, and cognitive functions (Van Ede et al., 2018). These oscillations are categorized into frequency bands, including delta (0.5–4 Hz), theta (4–8 Hz), alpha (8–13 Hz), beta (13–30 Hz), and gamma (30–100 Hz) waves (Steriade et al., 1990). By examining these neuronal rhythms, correlations between alterations in cognitive function and brain health can be established, offering insights into the effects of these oscillations on overall brain functioning (Figure 2). Despite conclusive evidence supporting the neuroprotective effects of exercise, whether each specific type of exercise entails distinct neuroprotective mechanisms remains debated in the realm of sports medicine (Ciria et al., 2018). Moreover, the comparative effectiveness of various exercise modalities remains contentious and requires further investigation (Liu et al., 2019).
Figure 2. Different types of exercise affect different bands of brain waves.
Resistance training, defined as any physical activity involving the generation of muscular force against external resistance to enhance muscle size, strength, and endurance, is a fundamental component of physical fitness (Chow et al., 2021). Studies have established a correlation between low skeletal muscle mass or impaired muscle function and cognitive dysfunction (Oudbier et al., 2022; Peng et al., 2023). Neurological adaptations to resistance training, particularly observed within the first 6–8 weeks of initiating a regimen, often result in rapid strength gains even in the absence of muscle hypertrophy (Folland and Williams, 2007). Resistance exercise (RE) can activate various neurochemicals, including lactate, cortisol (COR), BDNF, norepinephrine, and dopamine (Hsieh et al., 2016). Harveson et al. (2016) reported the beneficial impact of acute moderate resistance exercise (70% 1RM) on working memory in male adults aged 21–30 and older adults aged 65-72. However, these health benefits of acute resistance exercise may be short-lived. Following acute isometric RE in the lower extremities, Basso and Suzuki (2017) observed a temporary elevation in peripheral blood levels of IGF-1, with cognitive benefits lasting up to 2 h post-exercise. Conversely, older adults engaged in 52 weeks of resistance exercise displayed increased peripheral blood IGF-1 levels and enhanced cognitive performance (Tsai et al., 2019). Moreover, skeletal muscles are known to secrete neurotrophic and muscle factors such as insulin-like growth factor-1 and BDNF, fostering structural and functional plasticity in brain regions like the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (Broadhouse et al., 2020; Coutinho et al., 2022). This release of growth factors, not exclusive to resistance exercise, may be a key mechanism (Nicola et al., 2024). Long-term neural structure and function are likely supported by resistance exercise through this mechanism, potentially enhancing cognitive function through improved skills and muscle-related adaptations.
In recent years, researchers have endeavored to elucidate the relationship between resistance training and neural oscillations, aiming to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the effects of resistance exercise on brain function from alternative perspectives (Weiss et al., 2023). A study showed that a physical activity program for 4 months led to an increase in frontal alpha activity during an attention task, suggesting an improvement in the neural dynamics linked to visual attention (Chaire et al., 2020). Furthermore, studies have been conducted to determine how different exercise regimens affect muscle strength and cognitive performance. These studies demonstrate that brief, intense resistance training can positively affect neural oscillations and brain plasticity, resulting in improved cognitive performance and synaptic plasticity (Harrison et al., 2019; Nuzzo et al., 2024). In a separate investigation into the impact of resistance exercise therapy on individuals with mild cognitive impairment, a notable decline in theta band power was documented following 12 weeks of group resistance training (Chmielewski et al., 2021). While resistance training is increasingly used in clinical settings, more research is needed to determine the most effective dosage for optimal health effects.
In addition to resistance training, aerobic exercise represents another common form of PE. Comparative analyses of systematic reviews and meta-analyses from the past 5 years suggest that aerobic exercises such as walking, jogging, and cycling are more frequently employed in research aimed at improving cognitive health compared to resistance training (Lesinski et al., 2015; Sáez de Asteasu et al., 2017; Northey et al., 2018; Gavelin et al., 2021; Kwok et al., 2022). This preference may stem, in part, from the accessibility and simplicity of aerobic exercises. Aerobic activities are straightforward to perform, often requiring minimal specialized equipment and supervision, making them suitable for incorporation into daily routines, particularly for untrained individuals and those with cognitive impairments (Chow et al., 2021). Results from numerous studies involving humans and animals suggest that voluntary running in rodents or aerobic training in humans can enhance brain plasticity, including synaptogenesis, neurogenesis, and cognition (Falkai et al., 2017). Several meta-analyses focusing on adults aged over 55 have highlighted the beneficial effects of aerobic exercise on attention, processing speed, executive function, memory, and working memory (Falkai et al., 2017; Northey et al., 2018). Additionally, a study by Stern et al. found that 6 months of aerobic exercise positively impacted brain health in healthy individuals aged 20 to 67 years. A study on neural oscillations revealed that participants in the exercise group experienced an increase in frontal alpha power magnitude after a 4-month aerobic exercise program, as measured using the Visual Attention Search Task (VAS) (Chaire et al., 2020). In a study investigating the neural mechanisms of aerobic exercise-induced hyperalgesia, participants exhibited reduced pain scores in the tibialis anterior and rectus femoris muscles following moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, accompanied by increased power of alpha oscillations, indicative of central descending inhibition (Zheng et al., 2021). Decreases in task-related power within the beta band of sensorimotor regions, as measured by EEG, are believed to indicate heightened cortical activation and active processing of motor tasks (Gerloff et al., 1998; Engel and Fries, 2010). The alpha and beta bands experienced an increase in EEG coherence after a single session of aerobic exercise, with the highest level of improvement observed in the high beta band (Mark et al., 2023). The following are potential underlying mechanisms that can improve cognitive function through aerobic exercise.
Aerobic exercise has become the cornerstone of clinical management for various neurodegenerative diseases. However, the intensity of aerobic exercise has been a subject of controversy in research (Tsai et al., 2019; Sudo et al., 2022). In a study analyzing the effects of a single 25-min moderate-intensity exercise intervention in older adults, the experimental group exhibited improved motor performance on the force modulation task immediately post-exercise compared to the control group (Hübner et al., 2018). However, many studies indicate that high-intensity aerobic exercise [≥80% of maximal power output, ≥80% of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2)] may lead to brain and cognitive damage (Komiyama et al., 2020; Stone et al., 2020). Recently, a narrative review emphasized the impact of aerobic exercise on cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral oxygenation, and cerebral metabolism (Sudo et al., 2022). It was noted that there is a gradual increase in CBF during light to moderate-intensity exercise, whereas high-intensity exercise leads to a decrease in CBF. This suggests that the metabolic demands of the brain may not be met during high-intensity exercise, potentially negatively impacting cognition and brain health.
Even though overwhelming evidence suggests that physical exercise improves brain health and cognitive function, concerns remain. Sports-related concussions (SRCs) are frequently experienced by athletes due to biomechanical forces to the head, resulting in transient clinical signs, symptoms, and dysfunction (Chmielewski et al., 2021). EEG is often utilized clinically for diagnosing moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), monitoring acute and subacute neurophysiological changes, and serving as a prognostic indicator for the patient's clinical presentation and recovery (Corbin-Berrigan et al., 2023). It is increasingly recognized that excessive exercise could result in brain damage. While EEG is not the primary method for monitoring and treating sudden cardiac death (SCD) in clinical settings, it proves valuable for detecting potential abnormalities (Rapp et al., 2015; Kamins et al., 2017). EEG abnormalities have been identified in patients with SRC in some studies. Research conducted by Teel et al. (2014) revealed that concussed participants exhibited reduced alpha, beta, and theta bandwidths, particularly showing a significant reduction in beta power during computerized neurocognitive testing (ImPACT). In a study that gathered EEGs from concussed patients, analysis revealed alterations in the alpha and beta frequency bands that significantly correlated with Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores (Frohlich et al., 2022). Specifically, higher GCS scores were associated with reduced alpha power and increased beta power. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring and analyzing oscillations in different frequency bands following injury for accurate diagnosis and prognosis in post-injury care (Frohlich et al., 2022). Caution should be exercised regarding excessive physical activity due to its potential adverse impact on brain health.
In recent years, researchers have shown increased interest in various forms of exercise due to the differing needs of diverse populations. Mind-body exercises such as yoga, Tai Chi, and dance have been utilized in the treatment of some chronic diseases. Further research on the effects of these types of exercises on brain health is necessary.
3 How mind-body exercise affects human neural activity and cognitive functioning
Recent studies have focused on the potential benefits of mind-body exercises, such as yoga, dance, and Tai Chi, on brain health (Gothe et al., 2019). Mind-body exercise, a form of physical exercise that utilizes a mind-body approach to achieve physical and mental benefits, has garnered significant attention from researchers (Kwok et al., 2019). Despite its lower intensity compared to other forms of exercise, mind-body exercise still offers specific health benefits that have piqued researchers' interest.
Dance is a multifaceted activity that includes physical exercise and cognitive, social, and artistic components, which are linked to visual-spatial, cognitive, and executive functions in individuals (Chirles et al., 2017; Karkou et al., 2019). It has been demonstrated that dance can enhance cognitive and executive functioning, especially in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (Qi et al., 2019; Zhu et al., 2020). A recent systematic review further supports the idea that dancing can lead to increased cognitive stimulation, promoting neuroplasticity in the brain (Teixeira-Machado et al., 2019). Dance interventions have been shown to positively impact brain plasticity, causing various structural changes, such as increases in gray matter volume and white matter integrity (Teixeira-Machado et al., 2019). An experiment was conducted by Qi et al. (2019) utilizing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) assessed changes in brain activity using the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) metric. The results revealed that older adults with mild cognitive impairment who participated in the dance intervention group exhibited increased ALFF in brain regions, including the bilateral frontotemporal, insular, anterior cingulate, and parahippocampal cortex. Additionally, substantial cortical thickening was observed in specific regions of the right hemisphere in the dance intervention group (Rektorova et al., 2020). The positive impacts of dance interventions on brain structure and function suggest that improvements in cognitive functioning may be achievable through dance therapy (Wu et al., 2021). Notably, a study reported a significant increase in white matter volume in frontal and parietal regions, as well as in the corpus callosum, following a 6-month dance intervention (Voss et al., 2017a; Rektorova et al., 2020). The engagement of cognitive, somatosensory, and motor regions in complex dance movements can have subtle yet beneficial effects on cognitive functions (Wu et al., 2021). Dance therapy has also been credited with enhancing coordination between neurosensory and muscular systems, increasing flexibility, and muscular strength in both the upper and lower extremities (Douka et al., 2019; Chan et al., 2021). While existing studies have confirmed the positive health effects of dance interventions on both the brain and body, further research with larger sample sizes and extended interventions is warranted. This is due to the necessity of comprehensive instruction and coaching in dance, as well as the ongoing need to explore the underlying physiological mechanisms more extensively.
Yoga, considered a common mind-body exercise intervention alongside dancing, is a positive movement practice that allows individuals to move gradually and safely into physical postures while emphasizing relaxation, full breathing, and awareness of physical sensations and thoughts (Gothe et al., 2019). One study revealed that experienced yoga practitioners exhibited greater overall brain gray matter volume (GMV) compared to non-practitioners (Villemure et al., 2015). In a study conducted over 3 months by Krause-Sorio et al. (2022) older women at risk for Alzheimer's disease who engaged in weekly yoga training and completed assignments punctually demonstrated retention of GMV across all brain regions, as well as increased volumes in the left precentral cortex and lateral occipital cortex. Several studies have examined the effectiveness of combining transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with yoga interventions. These studies have shown that the combination of yoga and active tDCS leads to improved subnetwork connectivity across all EEG frequency bands (Sefat et al., 2022). These results hint at the possible physiological mechanisms underlying yoga's cognitive benefits. Recent recognition of yoga as a safe practice with positive cognitive effects in healthy older adults, those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and early-stage dementia patients is noteworthy (Brenes et al., 2019; Chobe et al., 2020). A randomized controlled trial revealed that yoga had a moderately significant impact on cognition, with attention and processing speed, executive function, and memory ranking as the top three affected domains (Voss et al., 2023). Although comparing the effects of various yoga interventions remains challenging due to the diversity in Hatha Yoga styles, these discrepancies could open new avenues for future research as they may lead to varying impacts on the nervous system (Voss et al., 2023). The growing recognition of yoga as an effective exercise intervention, along with ongoing exploration of its therapeutic effects on neurological disorders, points to the potential for optimized outcomes when combined with clinical treatments.
In recent years, the growing popularity of Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) as a physical and mental exercise can be attributed to its multifaceted health benefits (Wayne et al., 2014). Originating in China during the 17th century AD (Yang et al., 2022). TCC has been linked to positive changes in brain function and structure in various studies. For instance, a study involving a 40-week TCC intervention revealed a significant increase in brain volume (Yang et al., 2022). Furthermore, a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study showed that a 12-week TCC intervention led to improvements in subjects' low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) scores in the lateral prefrontal cortex compared to a control intervention (Yue et al., 2020). Such enhancements in specific brain regions can potentially alleviate age-related memory loss. Notably, older women with 6 years of Tai Chi experience demonstrated greater homogeneous activation of spontaneous regions in temporal areas, including the fusiform gyrus and hippocampus, compared to those engaging in 6 years of walking as a control intervention, as indicated by another fMRI study (Yue et al., 2020). Moreover, systematic evaluations and meta-analyses have underscored the positive impact of TCC on overall cognitive functioning, memory, learning, and visual perception among patients with cognitive impairment (Yang et al., 2020). However, experimental studies have failed to establish the superiority of TCC over control interventions in improving depressive symptoms or executive function (Wei et al., 2022). There is a lack of conclusive evidence supporting the notion that Tai Chi is more effective in addressing these features than alternative control methods. This underscores the need for further research to elucidate the precise benefits of TCC on physical and mental health, along with the underlying neural mechanisms supporting these effects.
With increasing interest in mind-body exercises such as yoga and Tai Chi, which offer the flexibility to adjust exercise loads and cater to a wider range of individuals, including the elderly and those with neurological conditions, it is evident that these exercises are becoming more popular. The debate surrounding adaptive movement patterns persists due to the insufficient availability of reliable monitoring instruments (Chaire et al., 2020). Therefore, it is crucial to conduct further research to elucidate the underlying neural mechanisms, necessitating a better understanding of their impact (Yang et al., 2020; Wei et al., 2022).
4 Age-related effects of PE on brain health and neurodegenerative disease rehabilitation via neural oscillation mechanisms
The advent of neuroimaging technology has enabled the non-invasive monitoring of human brain activity. However, these methods have inherent limitations that hinder the exploration of intricate neural mechanisms. Factors such as low amplitude, artifacts, and resistance to wearing electrode caps can adversely affect the accuracy of EEG signals (Baumgartner and Koren, 2018). Additionally, age (Borhani et al., 2021), health conditions (Weiss et al., 2023), and other factors can impact brain health and function. The role of neural oscillations and PE in brain health requires further research.
Changes in structural brain functioning linked to age-related cognitive decline, also known as normal cognitive aging, have been well-documented (Jafari et al., 2020). Individuals undergoing physiological aging often demonstrate increased power of low-frequency oscillations and a decrease and slowing of alpha activity, as observed in resting-state EEG (rsEEG) studies (Nobukawa et al., 2019). Consistent findings have shown shifts in oscillatory activity from posterior to anterior regions in older adults, characterized by an increase in frontal activity and a decrease in occipital activity (Perinelli et al., 2022). Specifically, the power spectral density (PSD) tends to plateau at 2–24 Hz in older adults compared to their younger counterparts, indicating alterations in brain activity with age (Voytek et al., 2015). Research has revealed that both slow and fast gamma power decrease with age, with a more pronounced decrease observed in fast gamma power (Murty et al., 2020). This decline in gamma power was further corroborated by another study, which showed age-related reductions in gamma power in the motor region, suggesting the generalizability of this phenomenon across various brain regions (Gaetz et al., 2020). Given the known involvement of the gamma band in higher cognitive functions such as attention and working memory, the observed changes in gamma band activity in older adults align with the hypothesis that cognitive decline is associated with aging (Murty et al., 2020). Moreover, a substantial relationship between memory retrieval accuracy and rsEEG band power has been established. Increases in alpha and beta bands in the right parietal and right frontal lobes have been found to be significantly associated with decreased memory retrieval accuracy (Borhani et al., 2021). These findings underscore the importance of understanding the neural mechanisms underlying age-related cognitive changes and highlight the potential utility of rsEEG measures in predicting cognitive performance in older adults.
The risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) increases with age (Mattson and Arumugam, 2018). PD is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder clinically characterized as a “movement disorder” due to symptoms such as stiffness and bradykinesia. Excessive activity in the beta band is a hallmark of basal ganglia signaling in PD patients, characterized by sudden bursts rather than continuous elevation. Prior studies have elucidated that prolonged beta bursts in PD contribute to heightened oscillatory synchronization within the subthalamic nucleus (STN), impeding the encoding capacity of local circuits (Tinkhauser et al., 2018). Consequently, researchers have probed whether animal models of PD exhibit similar alterations in beta activity within the basal ganglia following dopamine loss and resultant motor dysfunction. This exploration has facilitated direct comparisons of synchronized activity across various behaviors between control and dopamine-deprived groups (Avila et al., 2010), illuminating the origins and ramifications of synchronous increases in basal ganglia output within the beta range (Figure 3). One study discovered that bilateral electrodes implanted in the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNpr) of rats with unilateral damage revealed a correlation between dopamine loss and heightened spike activity in both local field potential (LFP) power and beta frequency ranges (Johansson et al., 2022).
Figure 3. Beta burst dynamics in PD. Increased β pulse amplitude appears in PD mouse model (A). β bursts mitigated by exercise intervention (Yu et al., 2021). (B–D) Are replotted based on Liu (2021). A representative fast Fourier transform (FFT)-based spectrogram depicts the time-frequency spectral power of motor cortex LFPs during 5-min epochs of rest (B). Linear graphs show averaged LFP power (0–80 Hz) spectra for the Control, Parkinson's disease (PD), and PD + exercise (Ex) groups (C), with the gray area showing that the beta band in the 10–30 Hz range of LFP power was significantly increased in 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-lesioned rats. The average PSDs of the three groups are shown in (D). *P < 0.05, **P < 0.01; and compared with the PD group, #P < 0.05.
The surge in activity was predominantly observed in the high-frequency range while the rats walked on a circular treadmill, with the most pronounced activity occurring in the low-frequency range during periods of inattentive rest (Avila et al., 2010). Although the experimental design of the rodent study could not precisely determine the timing of muscle activity following reawakening from a state of inattentive rest, it facilitated a direct comparison between the damaged and undamaged hemispheres during complex and sustained exercise (Avila et al., 2010). The study indicated that the loss of dopamine significantly impacted the synchronization of output from the basal ganglia beta region in rats walking on a treadmill. Studies conducted on semi-Parkinsonian rats have demonstrated that dopamine depletion is linked to increased expression of low-frequency activities during rest, which diminishes with exercise (Palasz et al., 2019). These results suggest that abnormal beta wave activity is associated with impaired motor function and that exercise interventions in laboratory animals can modulate beta wave activity (Tinkhauser et al., 2018; Palasz et al., 2019). This presents a novel avenue for the treatment and monitoring of patients with Parkinson's disease.
AD is another common degenerative disease that, like Parkinson's disease (PD), becomes more prevalent with age. Gamma oscillations, which are rhythmic fluctuations of local field potentials (LFPs) with a frequency range of approximately 25–100 Hz, are a notable feature in various brain regions, such as the hippocampus (Mably and Colgin, 2018). These oscillations are believed to be involved in attention selection and memory processes (Bieri et al., 2014). Studies have shown that the amplitude of slow gamma oscillations tends to increase during the proper execution of tasks involving associative memory, particularly when cue-induced memory retrieval is anticipated. As a result, researchers hypothesize that certain cognitive disorders associated with brain diseases may be linked to disturbances in gamma rhythms (Bieri et al., 2014; Mehak et al., 2022).
Findings from a study revealed that 3xTg mice exhibited a decrease in the slow gamma power of the hippocampus CA1 within a familiar circular orbit, alongside an unstable spatial representation of CA1 place cells, and a reduction in the slow gamma coordination of CA1 place cells' discharge (Mably et al., 2017). This slow gamma impairment could potentially lead to the incomplete retrieval of stored spatial information from CA3 to CA1. These results suggest that targeting slow gamma interference could offer a promising new avenue for addressing memory deficits in Alzheimer's disease (Booth et al., 2016). It has been demonstrated that exercise enhances neurotrophic factors, growth factors, and synaptic markers, and reduces neuroinflammation, making it a key strategy for both the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease, often in conjunction with medications (Cotman et al., 2007; Cho et al., 2015). In a study combining 40 Hz light stimulation with exercise in the 3xTg mouse model, significant improvements were observed after a 12-week intervention period (Park et al., 2020). These included a reduction in tau phosphorylation and Aβ levels in the hippocampus, as well as enhancements in spatial learning, memory, long-term memory, mitochondrial function, and neuroplasticity. Although this study did not directly measure gamma oscillations, previous research has shown that alterations in hippocampal gamma oscillations occur over time and with Aβ levels (Kurudenkandy et al., 2014), with the 3xTg-AD model displaying abnormal synchronization of beta and gamma frequencies (Castano-Prat et al., 2019).
The lack of clinically recognized medications or medical treatments for degenerative diseases has propelled exercise to the forefront as a key intervention method (De la Rosa et al., 2020). Long-term exercise training has beneficial effects on delaying physiological memory loss, making it an effective strategy for preventing age-related memory loss and neurodegeneration (De la Rosa et al., 2020). One study demonstrated that 6 months of exercise (60 min per session, 3 days per week) increased gray and white matter in the anterior cingulate cortex in cognitively healthy older adults, as measured by magnetic resonance imaging (Sebastián-Romagosa et al., 2020). Through the analysis of EEG signals, exercise-induced changes can be objectively assessed, enabling the examination of physiological transformations in the brain (Albert et al., 2011). Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a transitional phase between normal aging and early dementia, characterized by a decline in certain cognitive functions (Albert et al., 2011). Clinical research has shown that prolonged exercise training over a period of 6 to 12 weeks can lead to a reduction in delta and theta band power, along with an elevation in beta and alpha band power, as well as increased EEG complexity and connectivity in patients with MCI (Pedroso et al., 2021). These findings suggest that cortical activity and cognition in individuals with MCI may be improved by exercise, as evidenced by these observed alterations.
Animal model experiments also showed the benefits of PE. In a transgenic mouse model of AD, voluntary and forced exercise interventions led to a decrease in amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Improvements in learning and memory were correlated with these findings in some cases (Ohia-Nwoko et al., 2014; Tapia-Rojas et al., 2015). A recent study found that treadmill exercise for 12 weeks as part of an AD intervention program increased mitochondrial proteostasis in mice. Concurrently, the exercised mice exhibited a marked decrease in escape latency and a significant increase in crossings over the platforms in the water maze test (Cui et al., 2023). Research has shown that 4 weeks of sustained platform-running exercise can positively impact the plasticity of motor cortex function in rats with PD (Liu, 2021). Specifically, this exercise regimen led to the amelioration of abnormal neural activity in the primary motor cortex (M1) region of PD rats. The disruption of M1 neurons and beta oscillations due to the exercise intervention was evidenced by changes in oscillatory patterns (Liu, 2021). A notable finding was the decrease in spiking phase locking of beta band oscillations observed in the motor intervention group compared to the PD group. Additionally, voluntary running exercise has been found to enhance BDNF expression in the dorsal striatum of PD model mice (Bastioli et al., 2022). This study also found a notable increase in extracellular dopamine concentrations in the striatum of the exercise group. The importance of dopamine (DA) in exercise, motor learning, reward, motivation, and emotion cannot be overstated (Schultz et al., 2017; Athalye et al., 2018). Exercise has the potential to alleviate motor deficits in PD by slowing down the neurodegeneration of DA neurons (Bastioli et al., 2022). These studies suggest that exercise plays a pivotal role in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, demonstrating positive effects on behavior and brain plasticity in both animal and clinical trials (Cotman et al., 2007; Avila et al., 2010; Kurudenkandy et al., 2014; Tinkhauser et al., 2018; Park et al., 2020; Lee et al., 2021).
As individuals age, their brains undergo several changes that can lead to cognitive decline and slowed responses (Borhani et al., 2021). These changes, although subtle, can have a lasting and significant impact on an older person's life (Machado et al., 2019). Despite the absence of pharmaceutical agents specifically recommended for treating and preventing this degenerative process, exercise emerges as a potentially effective and accessible alternative. Monitoring changes in the brain's oscillations allows for timely adjustments to the exercise program (Wan et al., 2024). While numerous studies have highlighted the benefits of exercise on brain health and cognitive functioning, some have reported a weak association between exercise and cognitive performance (Iso-Markku et al., 2024). To achieve superior intervention outcomes, it is imperative to identify more effective methods to supplement single exercise interventions.
5 Conclusion and future direction
As previously highlighted, abundant evidence supports the significant impact of exercise on brain health, including enhancements in cognitive abilities, alterations in neuronal oscillatory activity, and other mechanisms across the lifespan in both healthy and pathological conditions. However, variations in task paradigms, age, gender, intervention duration, exercise type, and other protocols introduce considerable heterogeneity among studies, sometimes leading to conflicting results regarding the exercise-brain relationship (Browne et al., 2017; Vanderbeken and Kerckhofs, 2017; Gallardo-Gómez et al., 2022). For instance, a recent systematic review and meta-analysis in humans concluded that there may not be a linear association between exercise and cognition, particularly among older adults (Gallardo-Gómez et al., 2022). This study also revealed differential dose-response relationships for various exercise modalities, with resistance training potentially offering superior efficacy compared to other forms (Gallardo-Gómez et al., 2022). Against this backdrop, the standardization of research methodologies in this field is paramount (Augusto-Oliveira et al., 2023). This entails the harmonization of exercise protocols, including modality, design, intensity, and duration, as well as consideration of the timing of interventions relative to injury or neurodegenerative disease diagnosis and the characteristics of the study population. Essential aspects to be addressed include interference controls, cognitive function assessment methodologies, monitoring techniques, and the timing of outcome evaluations. Moreover, increasing sample sizes, particularly in human studies, is imperative due to the substantial heterogeneity among individuals, necessitating larger cohorts for robust conclusions and result replication (Augusto-Oliveira et al., 2023).
Combinations of different exercise modalities have garnered attention in research due to their reported effects on brain health and neural oscillations (Gothe et al., 2019; Yang et al., 2020). Identifying specific subgroups of individuals who stand to benefit most from particular physical activities is essential for tailoring personalized exercise regimens based on individual or group characteristics. Evolving data acquisition technology now allows for the simultaneous acquisition of EEG and EMG signals, enhancing the feasibility of research. This simultaneous capture during exercise enhances researchers' understanding of the muscle-brain relationship and facilitates the exploration of the deeper connections between physical activity and neural processes. Known as corticomuscular coherence (CMC), the coupling of sensorimotor cortical rhythms and muscle activity serves as a fundamental aspect of this investigation (Bourguignon et al., 2019). Through the analysis of EEG and EMG signals during movement, researchers can delve into the intricate relationship between the brain and physical motion.
In summary, physical activity is a crucial approach to preserving health and combating cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders. The importance of these variables when developing a personalized exercise prescription is due to the potential for disparate health effects based on the specific type and intensity of exercise. During exercise, neural oscillation changes provide new insights into monitoring the therapeutic effectiveness of PE and making prompt adjustments to the exercise program. Future studies may employ simultaneous brain and electromyography acquisition to further probe the nuanced interplay between exercise and brain functions. This knowledge holds considerable potential for advancing the development of precise non-pharmacological interventions aimed at enhancing brain health, preventing related diseases, and informing the creation of evidence-based personalized exercise prescriptions.
Author contributions
XL: Writing – original draft. XQ: Writing – original draft. KS: Writing – review & editing. YY: Writing – review & editing. JS: Writing – review & editing.
Funding
The author(s) declare financial support was received for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article. This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32000833) and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (265QZ2022005).
Acknowledgments
In addition to the listed authors, assistance was provided by Jiazheng Peng and Huiying Wang. We would like to thank Acadwrite (acadwrite.cn) for English language editing.
Conflict of interest
The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
Publisher's note
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Keywords: physical exercise, brain waves, cortical oscillations, plasticity, EEG
Citation: Li X, Qu X, Shi K, Yang Y and Sun J (2024) Physical exercise for brain plasticity promotion an overview of the underlying oscillatory mechanism. Front. Neurosci. 18:1440975. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1440975
Received: 30 May 2024; Accepted: 26 July 2024;
Published: 08 August 2024.
Edited by:
Chuanliang Han, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, ChinaReviewed by:
Jiayin Lin, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, ChinaJodie Xie, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China
Yan Li, Beijing Sport University, China
Copyright © 2024 Li, Qu, Shi, Yang and Sun. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.
*Correspondence: Kaixuan Shi, kk1988725@126.com