The Effects of Aerobic Exercise and Walking on the Structure and Function of the Hippocampus and Memory

Introduction: The hippocampus is the deep structure of the temporal lobe of the cerebral hemispheres and plays an important role in information storage and memory function. Aim: To investigatet hrough a scoping review, the effects of aerobic exercise and walking on the structure and function of the hippocampus, as well as the evaluation of changes that noted on the cognitive and memorial level in healthy adults. Material and Μethod: A search has been conducted at 2010–2019 in the PubMed and Scopus online database, using the following keywords: “healthy-adults”, “aerobic-exercise”, “walking”, “hippocampus” and “memory”, both individually and in combination. The inclusion criteria of articles in the scoping review were the following: (a) healthy adults aged 19 yrs and over who practice aerobics/and walking, (b) randomized and non-clinical trials, (c) 2010 to 2019 as publication dates, (d) to be published in english, (e) primary researches, and (f ) full text articles. Results: The total number of articles initially found was 87. Applicated PICOS the number of articles included in the study was 22. After the analysis of studies, it was found that exercise is effective in reversing hippocampal tumor loss even in old age. Aerobic exercise is considered neuroprotective and enhances both knowledge and brain tumor growth. Also, physical activity that does not require physical exercise, such as hiking can also be associated with cognitive health benefits. Conclusion: Aerobic exercise and hiking can act positively for the proper functioning of the hippocampus and memory but also for overall brain function at any age. Health professionals should encourage the population to start any physical activity taking into account their state of health.

Category: Volume 60, N 4
Hits: 734 Hits
Created Date: 09-03-2022
Authors: Anastasia Stergioti , Maria Kalafati