A review of the effects of physical exercise on neuroplasticity and their relevance in management of mental disorder

SUMMARY It is well-known that physical exercise brings a range of benefits for physical and mental health. This review specifically considers the impact of physical activity on mental health and focuses on the increasing knowledge of the neurobiological actions of exercise. It outlines the effects of stressors on physiology and, consequently, mental health and explores the concept of neuroplasticity. It assesses the wide-ranging evidence from animal and human studies consistent with exercise modulating neuroplasticity processes, such as stimulation of long-term potentiation, synaptic growth and neurogenesis. Mechanisms underpinning these effects are presented: stimulation of angiogenesis, production of neurotrophic factors, modulation of stress and inflammatory responses, metabolic adaptation and epigenetic modification. Finally, the relevance of the evidence base to clinical practice is considered. In particular, it is noted that discussion of these positive impacts of exercise on ‘brain health’ may increase motivation to participate in physical activity in some patients.