EXERCISE AS A TOOL FOR BUILDING RESILIENCE: EXPLORING THE UNDERLYING NEUROBIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS
Authors: Szczegielniak *Anna Rebeka , Krivošová Michaela 
Published: February 2025

Background

Resilience is defined as the ability to adapt to the environment under adverse circumstances and regain mental health after experiencing a highly stressful event. In recent years, mostly due to COVID-19-related stressor exposure, a strong interest in physical exercise as a resilience-building tool has been developed. Most explanatory theories focus on the modulation of neurotransmitters, enhanced neurogenesis, neuroplasticity, reduction of inflammatory reaction, and strengthening of the immune system. Structural and functional changes in the central nervous system under the influence of exercise are beneficial both from a biological as well as psychological and social perspective.

Aims & Objectives

The aim of the study is to discuss the probable biological basis for the observed positive impact of physical exercise on resilience and define further steps in translational research. Research objectives are as follows: 1) discuss if and how physical exercise can promote resilience and protect against stress-related disorders, 2) investigate biological mechanisms underlying the relationship between physical activity and resilience.

Methods

A narrative review of the literature published in English in the PubMed and EMBASE databases until January 10, 2024, was conducted.

Results

The results of a study based on a cross-sectional online survey during the most intense lockdown in Europe showed that the theory assuming different stresses requiring different adaptive psychological and behavioral responses is most likely wrong and universal solutions should be sought. The cognitive reserve built by regular exercise at several stages of life prepares for greater resilience to brain pathologies. Research on psychological resilience and quality of life in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic showed a difference between people with varying levels of exercise and emphasized that physical exercises can be a tool to moderate resilience. Research on psychological resilience in the USA population during the pandemic showed that it is higher among people who tend to get outside more often and exercise more. It was also shown that sitting time during the COVID-19 epidemic was associated with adverse effects on mental health (depression, anxiety, and well-being) in the studied adult population. Previous research indicated that physical activity improves anxiety regulation by engaging local inhibitory mechanisms in the ventral hippocampus, which leads to a reduced interaction of anxiety with normal brain functions. Currently, it is believed that there are several paths through which physical exercise can strengthen immunity. These include optimization of neuroendocrine and physiological responses to physical and psychosocial stressors, promotion of an anti-inflammatory state, and enhancing neuroplasticity and growth factor expression.

References

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