Increased cortisol levels caused by acute resistance physical exercise impair memory and learning ability
José-Luis Bermejo1,2, Raúl Valldecabres1,3, Israel Villarrasa-Sapiña4
1Department of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
Peerj
|March 29, 2022
Summary
High-intensity resistance exercise significantly increases cortisol levels and impairs memory and learning abilities. This study investigated the acute effects of intense exercise on physiological and cognitive stress responses in powerlifters.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Neuroscience
- Stress Response
Background:
- Acute physical exercise activates the human stress response via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
- This activation impacts physical, physiological, and psychological functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the effects of a single bout of high-intensity resistance exercise on cognitive-behavioral responses.
- To examine the impact on visuo-spatial path learning and memory.
- To assess associated physiological responses, specifically salivary cortisol levels.
Main Methods:
- A within-subject design was employed with 19 healthy, male, military-trained powerlifters.
- Two experimental sessions were conducted with a 48-hour interval.
- Cortisol levels and Ruff-Light trail-learning test (RULIT) scores were measured to assess stress and cognitive function.
Main Results:
- Acute resistance exercise led to significantly higher salivary cortisol levels immediately post-exercise.
- A significant deterioration in memory and learning ability was observed following the intense exercise bout.
- The findings indicate an immediate influence of acute exercise on both physiological stress markers and cognitive performance.
Conclusions:
- High-intensity resistance exercise acutely elevates cortisol levels.
- Intense exercise can temporarily impair cognitive functions such as memory and learning.
- The impact of resistance exercise on cortisol and cognition is relative, depending on exercise specifics and measurement timing.
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