Comparing High-Volume and Low-Volume Upper Limb Exercises to Improve Physical and Cognitive Health in Sedentary Adults

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare the effects of high-volume and low-volume upper extremity exercises on physical and cognitive performance in sedentary adults aged 18 to 50 years. It explores how different intensities of upper limb exercises may impact overall health, physical ability, and cognitive function, addressing a gap in knowledge since most previous studies focused on lower body exercise. The study also considers upper extremity motor function as a potential marker for cognitive decline and healthy aging. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two exercise groups. The high-volume group performs sessions three times a week for eight weeks, including a 5-minute warm-up at 60%-70% of maximum heart rate on an arm ergometer, four 4-minute intervals at 90%-95% of maximum work, active recovery periods, and a 5-minute cool-down, totaling 35 minutes per session. The low-volume group also trains three times weekly for eight weeks, with a 5-minute warm-up at 40% maximum work, 25 minutes of active training at 60%-70% maximum work, and a 5-minute cool-down. Participants are involved in regular exercise sessions over eight weeks while researchers assess multiple outcomes. These include physical activity levels measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form, maximal arm exercise capacity, cognitive tests such as the Stroop Test and reaction time, steadiness and postural sway assessments, and upper extremity muscle strength. The study monitors these measures to evaluate changes in both physical and cognitive performance, aiming to understand the benefits of upper limb exercise in sedentary adults.

Impact of High-Volume Upper Limb Training on Physical and Cognitive Outcomes