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Comparative effectiveness of rhythmic grip training of various intensities on cognitive function in young adults: a
Huming Zhu1, Yanbai Han1, Mengzhao Wang1
1College of Physical Education and Health, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, Guangxi, China.
Introduction:
Resistance training has a significant influence on cognitive function. Rhythmic handgrip (RHG) exercise, a practical form of small-muscle group training, may improve cognitive performance. However, the effects of resistance training at various intensities on prefrontal cortex (PFC) activation and cognitive outcomes remain unclear.
Methods:
This study recruited 24 healthy male participants (mean age: 22.39 ± 1.31 years). Participants completed experiments at three intensity levels [30%, 50%, and 70% Maximum Voluntary Contraction (MVC)] in a randomized order, with one-week intervals between sessions. During dynamic handgrip resistance training, participants performed rhythmic fist contractions at the target intensity, maintaining a frequency of 1 Hz for 30 s, followed by 30 s of rest. Each training set consisted of four contraction-rest cycles, and participants completed three sets in total, separated by 3-min rest periods. Cognitive task testing including the Stroop task, 2-Back task, and More-Odd Shifting task, was administered before and after each intervention. Cognitive performance was evaluated using reaction time and accuracy measures. Simultaneously, functional near-infrared spectroscopy was employed to measure changes in oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO2) levels in the prefrontal cortex during task execution.
Results:
The moderate-intensity (50% MVC) rhythmic handgrip task produced the greatest improvements in cognitive performance. Behaviorally, participants showed faster reaction times and higher accuracy than in low- (30% MVC) or high-intensity (70% MVC) conditions. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy results showed that moderate-intensity rhythmic handgrip enhanced the efficiency of prefrontal modulation, particularly in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and inferior frontal gyrus. The 50% MVC condition reduced oxygenated hemoglobin levels, indicating optimized neural efficiency and more effective cortical resource allocation during task performance.
Conclusion:
Moderate-intensity (50% MVC) RHG training significantly enhances executive function, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, while demonstrating more efficient neural activity. As a practical form of small-muscle-group training, moderate-intensity RHG resistance offers a promising early-intervention strategy for delaying cognitive decline and reducing dementia risk.
Clinical Trial Registration:
https://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2400083689.
