The effect of long-term strength training on brain metabolism in the elderly: a 7T 1H MRS study

Motivation: The effect of short-term physical activity on brain metabolism has been widely studied in young population, but less is known about metabolic plasticity induced by strength training over a long range among elderly adults. Goal(s): This study examined the modulatory potential of long-term strength training on metabolism in elderly population. Approach: Using 7 tesla magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), we assessed concentrations of γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA), glutamate (Glu), and a number of other metabolites in the sensorimotor cortex. Results: We found that three-months of strength learning significantly reduced lactate levels in the sensorimotor cortex compared to a passive control group. Impact: This study systematically examined brain metabolic plasticity induced by strength training in the elderly population. The reduction in lactate indicates that strength training may facilitate oxidation of lactate to meet increased energy demands for learning.