Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 16, 2026

Orienteering as a Tool for Cognitive Research: An Implementation Guide
Published on: November 29, 2024
End of exercise, end of benefits? A meta-analysis of optimal physical exercise parameters for brain volume
Geng Li1, Yang Liu2, Chengzhen Liu3
1Research Center for Exercise and Brain Science, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China.
Abstract:
Brain volume is closely linked to cognitive function, and its reduction is a key biomarker for neurodegenerative disease risk. Despite extensive research, uncertainties remain regarding the overall effects and optimal prescriptions of physical exercise on brain volume, as well as whether these changes translate into cognitive improvements. This preregistered systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis synthesized data from 59 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 5099 participants. Physical exercise had a significant effect on brain volume (Hedges' g = 0.10), though the majority of effect sizes did not reach the minimal clinically important difference (MCID). Improvements that reached the MCID were observed among subgroups meeting World Health Organization (WHO) physical activity guidelines-particularly those practicing mind-body exercises, following "weekend warrior" patterns, or assessed at follow-up. Meta-regression revealed a significant association between exercise-induced brain volume changes and cognitive improvements (β = 0.20). These findings offer evidence-based guidance for optimizing interventions aimed at improving brain and cognitive health.
Related Concept Videos
Exercise and Cardiac Output
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be...
Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Cardiac Output II: Effect of Stroke Volume on Cardiac Output
Preload
Preload refers to the initial elongation of the cardiac myocytes before contraction and is related to the volume of blood filling the heart at the end of diastole, or end-diastolic volume. The...

