The Influence of Exercise on the Endocrine System: Impacts on Adolescent Growth and Development
Juliana Soares Severo1, Rodrigo Soares Pereira Lima1, Aureliano Machado de Oliveira1
1Metabolic Diseases, Exercise and Nutrition Research Group (DOMEN), Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases Glauto Tuquarre, Department of Biophysics and Physiology, Center for Health Sciences, Federal University of Piaui, Teresina, Brazil.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|April 1, 2026
Summary
Physical exercise is crucial for adolescent endocrine regulation and metabolic health. Regular exercise improves hormonal balance, insulin sensitivity, and body composition, supporting healthy growth without significant weight loss.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Sports Medicine
- Pediatric Health
Background:
- Adolescence is a critical period for endocrine regulation and physical development.
- Hormonal adaptations during adolescence influence long-term metabolic health.
- Physical exercise is a key physiological stimulus impacting endocrine pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the influence of exercise on the endocrine system in children and adolescents.
- To emphasize exercise effects on metabolic control, body composition, and appetite hormones.
- To provide practical considerations for exercise prescription in this population.
Main Methods:
- Review of evidence on aerobic, resistance, and combined exercise interventions.
- Analysis of acute exercise effects on orexigenic and satiety hormones.
- Discussion of exercise prescription principles for adolescents.
Main Results:
- Exercise interventions improve insulin sensitivity and reduce cardiometabolic risk factors.
- Favorable hormonal responses are observed even without significant weight loss.
- Acute exercise suppresses appetite signals and enhances satiety hormones, particularly in overweight adolescents.
Conclusions:
- Physical exercise is a vital non-pharmacological strategy for endocrine balance during adolescence.
- Exercise supports healthy growth and metabolic control in children and adolescents.
- Individualized and supportive exercise approaches are important for this age group.
Keywords:
AdolescenceAppetite regulationEndocrine systemGrowth and developmentMetabolic healthPhysical exerciseMore Related Videos
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