A recent experiment found that when sedentary individuals have social interactions with more active people, they become more active in the long term. The findings suggest that people looking to increase their physical activity levels should spend more time interacting with people who already lead active lives. PLOS ONE, October 2022

In a recent experiment, researchers observed that “digital nudges” such as text messages, app alerts, or emails in the form of motivational messages had a positive effect on increasing physical activity levels among normally sedentary individuals. Journal of Association of Information Systems, October 2022

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a form of exercise that involves short intervals of near-maximal effort—such as sprinting or stair climbing—separated by intervals of moderate-intensity exercise—such as jogging or fast walking. A review of seven systematic reviews concluded that HIIT is an effective form of exercise for cancer patients and cancer survivors due to its…

In an experiment that included 20 healthy adults, researchers observed that a single session of aerobic exercise improved motor sequence learning. The findings suggest that engaging in a short bout of aerobic exercise may help individuals learning activities like dancing or playing the piano. International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology, January 2023

Among a group of 37 adults under treatment for major depressive disorder, those who walked for an hour in a natural setting experienced a greater reduction in negative emotions than participants who strolled in an urban environment. Journal of Affective Disorders, December 2022

Following an analysis of data from the Childhood Determinants of Adult Health study, researchers report that children who exercise, play sports, and maintain a healthy weight in childhood and adolescence are more likely to have above-average fitness as adults than their peers who are less active growing up. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise,…

In a recent study that included 642 adults, researchers observed that participants who replaced 30 minutes a day of social media use with physical activity of any intensity for just two weeks had improved satisfaction with their life that was not observed in those who maintained their usual physical activity levels and social media usage.…

A recent study found that children who exercised regularly for six months experienced improved academic performance, especially their verbal ability. Lead researcher Dr. Francisco Ortega adds, “If your children do not perform well academically, do not punish them … or withdraw them from an after-school sports activity, do just the opposite.” JAMA Network Open, August…

A study that included 404 patients with mildto-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) identified an association between living in a more densely populated areas and fewer steps taken per day, more time spent engaged in sedentary activities, and less exercise capacity—all of which may lead to worse outcomes for COPD patients. Environmental Research, November 2022

Researchers report that those in a group of 7,047 octogenarians who walked for at least ten minutes each day were 40% less likely to die in the following five years. European Society of Cardiology, August 2022