Physical Activity Across the Lifespan: Mechanisms, Interventions and Cognitive Function

Dear Colleagues,

Physical activity is increasingly recognised as a potent modifiable lifestyle factor for brain health and cognitive function. This Special Issue invites high-quality contributions exploring how movement, exercise, and physical activity influence cognition and brain processes across the lifespan, in both healthy and clinical populations. We are interested in mechanistic studies (neuroplasticity, vascular adaptations, myokines/exerkines, inflammation), interventional research (acute bouts, long-term programmes, real-world movement), and translational work (implementation, dose/duration/type, moderators/mediators). Methodologically advanced designs, such as neuroimaging, wearables and ecological monitoring, and electrophysiology, and biomarker studies are particularly welcome. Lifespan perspectives from childhood/adolescence through mid-life to older adults and contexts including neurodegenerative risk, cognitive decline, and combined physical and cognitive training are encouraged. The goal is to synthesise emerging evidence, deepen mechanistic understanding, and identify pathways for applying physical activity to optimise cognitive health.

Dr. Daniele Magistro
Prof. Dr. Simon Cooper
Guest Editors

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