Aerobic Exercise

What does the research say?

Research shows that aerobic exercise can significantly improve longevity. For example, studies indicate that it reduces the risk of falls by 30% to 50% and improves balance by 16% to 42% in older adults [1] . Additionally, 1 year of aerobic exercise can increase hippocampal volume by 2%, effectively reversing age-related brain volume loss by 1 to 2 years and improving memory [2] . Aerobic exercise also improves cerebrovascular function, reduces arterial stiffness, and enhances endothelial function, which are critical for maintaining cognitive health and reducing the risk of dementia [8] [10] .

None explicitly mentioned in the research

The reviewed papers do not explicitly mention any significant side effects of aerobic exercise when performed correctly and within individual limits [1] [2] [8] [10] .

Potential for overexertion or injury if not done properly

While not directly cited in the papers, overexertion or improper form during aerobic exercise could lead to injuries such as muscle strains or joint pain. It is important to start slowly and consult a healthcare provider if necessary.

[1] Physical activity programs for balance and fall prevention in elderly: A systematic review.

This review highlights the benefits of aerobic exercise for reducing falls and improving balance in the elderly, contributing to increased longevity.

[2] Exercise training increases size of hippocampus and improves memory.

This study found that 1 year of aerobic exercise increased hippocampal volume by 2%, reversing age-related brain volume loss and improving memory.

[3] Potential Benefits of Physical Activity in MCI and Dementia.

This review discusses how aerobic exercise improves brain health, reduces the risk of cognitive decline, and supports healthy aging.

[4] Benefits of Exercise in the Older Population.

This paper emphasizes the importance of aerobic exercise in improving physical function and quality of life in older adults.

[5] American College of Sports Medicine position stand. Exercise and physical activity for older adults.

This position stand highlights the benefits of aerobic exercise for increasing active life expectancy and reducing chronic disease risk in older adults.

[6] Minimal-Dose Resistance Training for Improving Muscle Mass, Strength, and Function: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Practical Considerations.

This review discusses the benefits of resistance training, which can complement aerobic exercise for improving muscle strength and functional ability in older adults.

[7] Aerobic exercise in the elderly: a key to successful aging.

This paper highlights the benefits of aerobic exercise for improving peak oxygen consumption, cardiovascular health, and quality of life in older adults.

[8] Benefits of exercise training on cerebrovascular and cognitive function in ageing.

This review discusses how aerobic exercise improves cerebrovascular function, cognition, and neuroplasticity, which are critical for healthy aging.

[9] Plant-Based Diets: Considerations for Environmental Impact, Protein Quality, and Exercise Performance.

This paper discusses the role of diet in exercise performance, which can complement aerobic exercise for overall health and longevity.

[10] Aerobic exercise training and vascular function with ageing in healthy men and women.

This review highlights how aerobic exercise improves vascular health, reduces arterial stiffness, and supports healthy aging.

[11] Be smart, exercise your heart: exercise effects on brain and cognition.

This paper discusses the positive effects of aerobic exercise on brain function and cognition, which are essential for healthy aging.

[12] Skeletal muscle hypertrophy after aerobic exercise training.

This review highlights how aerobic exercise can reverse age-related muscle loss and improve functional capacity in older adults.

[13] An Updated Panorama of Blood-Flow-Restriction Methods.

This paper discusses blood-flow restriction training, which can complement aerobic exercise for improving muscle strength and function.

[14] Health benefits of aerobic exercise.

This paper highlights the cardiovascular and mental health benefits of aerobic exercise, which contribute to longevity.

[15] Effects of Exercise Training on Anabolic and Catabolic Hormones with Advanced Age: A Systematic Review.

This review discusses how exercise training, including aerobic exercise, can increase anabolic hormones, which are associated with improved muscle mass, strength, and metabolic health.