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Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise to Human Health

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A special issue of Sports (ISSN 2075-4663).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 October 2025 | Viewed by 9872

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Ricardo Manuel Pires Ferraz

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Department of Sport Science, University of Beira-Interior (UBI/CIDESD), 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
Interests: exercise science; sports science; exercise performance; strength and conditioning; exercise testing, exercise intervention; physical education; football; motor skills; volleyball; psycophysiology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Henrique P. Neiva

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Guest Editor

Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
Interests: strength and conditioning; sports medicine; exercise evaluation; performance; physiology; biomechanics
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Fernanda M. Silva

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Guest Editor

Research Unit for Sport and Physical Activity (CIDAF), Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
Interests: sedentary behavior; exercise; metabolic health; disease prevention; respiratory health

Dr. Pedro Alexandre Duarte-Mendes

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Guest Editor

1. Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, Castelo Branco, Portugal
2. Sport Physical Activity and Health Research & Innovation Center, SPRINT, Santarém, Portugal
Interests: sports science; exercise physiology; sports injuries; motor imagery; sedentary behaviour
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Recent estimates point to a high prevalence of physical inactivity and sedentary behavior in modern societies. Physical inactivity is one of the leading risk factors for chronic non-communicable diseases (i.e., diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers) and all-cause mortality worldwide. From a public health perspective, it becomes urgent to develop new strategies and therapeutic approaches for preventing or managing these deleterious health outcomes.

Alternately, physical activity and exercise provide multiple health benefits, reducing the risk of all-cause mortality. The updated WHO 2020 guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behavior encourage the different population groups to undertake aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities and limit the time spent sedentary for optimal health outcomes. Nonetheless, more research is needed to better understand the factors underlying regular physical activity/exercise, as well as effective strategies to increase adherence and maintenance.

This Special Issue is dedicated to studies that investigate how physical activity and exercise interventions contribute to human health and well-being across all age groups. The topic of interest includes, but is not limited to the following:

- Determinants of physical activity and exercise adherence: barriers and facilitators

- Strategies to improve physical activity levels and exercise adherence

- Physical activity and exercise in disease prevention and management

- Physical activity and exercise on physical and mental health

We are particularly interested in experimental and observational studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and study protocols.

Dr. Ricardo Manuel Pires Ferraz
Prof. Dr. Henrique P. Neiva
Dr. Fernanda M. Silva
Dr. Pedro Alexandre Duarte-Mendes
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sports is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

movement behaviors
physical activity
public health
health promotion
disease

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 981 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association of Controlled Physical Activity with Weight Loss and Less Limitations for Hypertensive Patients

by Roxana Cristina Rad Bodan, Adina Octavia Dușe, Eniko Gabriela Papp, Răzvan Marian Melinte and Minodora Andor

Sports 2025, 13(4), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13040124 - 17 Apr 2025

Viewed by 280

Abstract

Background: The overweight population is a major public health problem which is typical for the 21st century, considering the peak of the noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). The connection between hypertension—the number-one risk factor of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)—and the body mass index (BMI), which is growing worldwide, needs to be taken into consideration. Methods: Four homogeneous groups of twenty-five patients each with hypertension degree 1 benefited from different 8-week recovery programs: recommendation for a healthy lifestyle (all groups—A, B, C and D), antihypertensive medication (groups B, C and D), physical therapy program (group C), and hydrotherapy program (group D). Four parameters were pursued: body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (Wcir.), and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP-DBP). Results: Intragroup comparison between initial and final testing registered a statistically significant decrease in all parameters for group C: BMI (p = 0.001), Wcir, SBP and DBP (p < 0.0001). Additionally, parameters of group D decreased significantly: BMI (p = 0.0005), Wcir, SBP and DBP (each p < 0.0001). Group A registered a statistical increase in the DPB parameter (p = 0.03), and group B had a significant decrease in SBP (p = 0.03). Conclusions: Implication in established physical therapy and hydrotherapy had a better outcome in diminishing all four parameters compared to the recommendations for a healthy lifestyle when patients had to improve their lifestyle by themselves, unsupervised. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise to Human Health)

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11 pages, 201 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Responses During Matches of International Female Football Players with Cerebral Palsy According to Their Sport Classes

by Oier Berasategui, Javier Yanci, Raúl Reina, Matías Henríquez, Aitor Iturricastillo, Ibai Errekagorri and Daniel Castillo

Sports 2025, 13(4), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13040094 - 24 Mar 2025

Viewed by 262

Abstract

Background/Objectives: International-level competition opportunities have recently been introduced for female footballers with cerebral palsy (CP), highlighting a gap in the research on their physical performance during matches. The objectives of this study were (I) to describe the physical responses during the 2022 Women’s World Cup of football players with cerebral palsy (CP) and (II) to analyze the differences in physical responses based on the players’ sport class (i.e., FT1, FT2, and FT3). Methods: Physical responses were recorded using global positioning devices (GPS) during four official international matches. Results: The results showed that FT2 players covered more explosive distances than FT1 players (p < 0.05; ES = −0.82), and FT2 and FT3 players achieved higher maximum velocities than FT1 players (p < 0.01; ES = −1.16 and p < 0.05; ES = −1.41, respectively). Furthermore, FT2 players performed more accelerations (p < 0.05; ES = −0.82 to −1.01) and decelerations (p < 0.01; ES = −1.00) in the mid–high intensity zones than FT1 players. Conclusions: While the greater impairment of FT1 players may have influenced their lower physical responses in competition compared to FT2 and FT3 players, the absence of differences between FT2 and FT3 classes is a novel aspect that requires further scientific investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise to Human Health)

11 pages, 507 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Comparative Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training and Traditional Resistance Training on Hormonal Responses in Young Women: A 10-Week Intervention Study

by Wael Ramadan, Chrysovalantou E. Xirouchaki and Abdel-Hady El-Gilany

Sports 2025, 13(3), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13030067 - 25 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2966

Abstract

Background: Hormonal levels in women are influenced by exercise intensity and modality. Methods: This 10-week study compared high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and traditional resistance training (TRT) in 72 young women. Hormonal levels (estrogen, testosterone, FSH, prolactin, and LH) were measured pre- and post-intervention. Results: Both groups showed significant increases in estrogen (HIIT: 150%; TRT: 72.3%) and decreases in testosterone (HIIT: 58%; TRT: 49%), FSH (HIIT: 6%; TRT: 7.7%), and PL (HIIT: 5%; TRT: 2.1%). There are no significant changes in LH. Conclusions: HIIT and TRT effectively modulate hormonal profiles, potentially benefiting reproductive and metabolic health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise to Human Health)

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18 pages, 1317 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of Home-Based Stretching and Strengthening Training for Improving Flexibility, Strength, and Physical Function in Older Adults with Leg Tightness and/or Suspected Sarcopenia

by Pornpimol Muanjai, Sirawee Chaovalit, Nongnuch Luangpon, Wirasinee Srijunto, Pongrung Chancharoen, Juntip Namsawang, Piyapong Prasertsri, Sigitas Kamandulis, Tomas Venckunas and Orachorn Boonla

Sports 2025, 13(3), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13030065 - 21 Feb 2025

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Abstract

Background/Objectives: The aim of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of flexibility or strengthening exercises to improve flexibility, strength, muscle architecture, and functional performance in older adults with leg tightness and/or suspected sarcopenia. Methods: Ninety adults with leg tightness and/or suspected sarcopenia (age: 66.8 ± 4.9 years) were randomly allocated to two subtypes of intervention at home: resistance-band exercise (RE) or eccentric exercise (ECC) for those with weakness; static or dynamic stretching for those with tightness; and static stretching plus ECC or no exercise for those with both muscle tightness and weakness. The program consisted of 3–6 weekly sessions over eight weeks. Blinded outcome assessments before and after the eight-week program and at the three-month follow-up included mobility performance via Timed Up-and-Go (TUG), and flexibility and strength tests, as well as measurement of stiffness. Results: All groups had increased peak torque after eight weeks and improved TUG at the three-month follow-up (p < 0.05). Improved plantar flexor strength persisted at the three-month follow-up (p = 0.009). In addition, the RE and ECC groups had increased muscle thickness by 4.0 and 8.7% after eight weeks (p < 0.05). Hamstring flexibility increased in all exercise groups, except the RE group. Moreover, all six groups showed improved calf flexibility, whereas no changes in stiffness were noted. Conclusions: Increases in mobility performance, strength, and flexibility appeared due to learning effects and increased physical activity, rather than the specific training impact. However, strength-based programs may be recommended for older adults with suspected sarcopenia, as they provide additional benefits, such as short-lasting muscle hypertrophy. Full article

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13 pages, 1476 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Effects of Resistance Training Modalities on Mental Health and Quality of Life in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury

by Lucas Vieira Santos, Karla Raphaela da Silva Ramos Freitas, Eveline Torres Pereira, Luciano Bernardes Leite, Pedro Forte, Claudia Eliza Patrocínio de Oliveira and Osvaldo Costa Moreira

Sports 2025, 13(2), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13020060 - 18 Feb 2025

Viewed by 851

Abstract

Background: Anxiety and depression are prevalent after spinal cord injury, impairing social participation and quality of life. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of traditional resistance training (TRT), flywheel resistance training (FWRT), and high-velocity resistance training (HVRT) on the mental health and quality of life in individuals with spinal cord injury. Methods: Thirty-two participants were divided into TRT (n = 12), FWRT (n = 8), and HVRT (n = 12) groups, undergoing 8 weeks of upper-limb training twice weekly under super-vision. Training intensity and volume were progressively increased. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and SF-36 Questionnaire were used to assess outcomes. Results: Both the TRT and FWRT groups showed a reduction in HADS-D scores post-intervention (p < 0.001). The TRT group also presented a significant reduction in HADS-A scores post-intervention (p = 0.003). Concerning quality of life, after training, TRT showed improvements in social functioning (p = 0.013), FWRT improved scores in physical functioning (p = 0.002), bodily pain (p = 0.002), vitality (p = 0.046), and role emotional (p < 0.001), while HVRT enhanced role physical (p < 0.001), social functioning (p = 0.013), and role emotional (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Overall, TRT was the most effective in reducing anxiety and depression and enhancing quality of life, while FWRT showed notable gains in physical and functional capacity. HVRT demonstrated improvements primarily in role physical but was less effective in other domains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise to Human Health)

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13 pages, 1482 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Sports in Building Resilience: A Machine Learning Approach to the Psychological Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children and Adolescents

by Giulia Di Martino, Carlo della Valle, Alessandra di Cagno, Giovanni Fiorilli, Giuseppe Calcagno and Daniele Conte

Sports 2025, 13(2), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13020037 - 3 Feb 2025

Viewed by 1133

Abstract

(1) Background: This study evaluated whether physical activity and sports serve as a protective factor in mitigating COVID-19 pandemic long-term consequences. (2) Methods: A survey of 1702 participants (8–18 years) used the Impact of Event Scale (IES), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), and Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children (CES-DC). Participants were categorized based on their engagement in sports, cultural activities, or sedentary behaviors. Statistical analysis included non-parametric tests, CHAID models, and clustering. (3) Results: In total, 65.5% of participants experienced minimal to mild anxiety, and 34.5% reported moderate to severe anxiety. The main predictor of depression is the sample age, followed by the training experience. Depressive symptoms were identified in 71.3% of participants (75.7% adolescents; 64% children). Adolescents with longer training experience (67.6%) showed lower depression compared to those with shorter experience (77.2%). For post-traumatic stress, 38% of children and 46% of adolescents exceeded cut-off scores for significant symptoms, with age and training level identified as key predictors. Among children, sport experience with low weekly frequency was associated with the lowest depression rates (59.5%). (4) Conclusions: Four years after the pandemic, a high percentage of anxiety and depression disorders is observed in the youth population, particularly among adolescents. Sports appear to slightly alleviate this serious condition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise to Human Health)

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Review

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14 pages, 4625 KiB

Open AccessReview

Characterization of Load Components in Resistance Training Programs for Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Scoping Review

by Jhonatan C. Peña, Lilibeth Sánchez-Guette, Camilo Lombo, Edith Pinto, Carlos Collazos, Blanca Tovar, Diego A. Bonilla, Luis A. Cardozo and Luis Andres Tellez

Sports 2025, 13(5), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports13050153 - 19 May 2025

Abstract

Resistance training (RT) has been shown to produce beneficial effects, including on quality of life, renal function, physical fitness, and survival rates in kidney transplant for 24 recipients. However, the optimal periodization of load components for this population remains unclear, as no consensus has been established. This study aimed to characterize the load components of RT programs in kidney transplant recipients. A scoping review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The literature search was performed up to October 2024 in MEDLINE/PubMed, the Web of Science Core Collection, SCOPUS, ScienceDirect, and SPORTDiscus. Only studies that included RT as part of the intervention were considered. The RT variables analyzed included intervention duration, weekly frequency, session duration, number and types of exercises, intensity, number of sets, rest time between sets, progressive overload, and execution velocity. A total of 645 studies were identified, of which 15 met the eligibility criteria and were selected for analysis. The primary strategy for intensity control was based on the percentage of one-repetition maximum (%1RM), with training zones ranging from 30% to 80%. The number of sets varied from two to eight, while repetitions ranged from 10 to 20. The rest intervals between sets lasted between one and five minutes. The most highly implemented type of resistance involved the use of dumbbells, body weight, and elastic bands. A high degree of heterogeneity was identified in load periodization parameters, highlighting a lack of consensus in exercise prescription for this population. However, this review established general criteria that can serve as a reference for exercise professionals to develop more structured and effective training programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise to Human Health)

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18 pages, 724 KiB

Open AccessReview

Return to Physical Activity in Individuals with Surgical Stomas: A Scoping Review

by Andrea-Victoria Mena-Jiménez, Claudio-Alberto Rodríguez-Suárez and Héctor González-de la Torre

Sports 2024, 12(10), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/sports12100273 - 10 Oct 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1677

Abstract

In surgically treated individuals with surgical stomas, the return to physical activity is an indicator of quality of life that reflects their well-being. With the aim of synthesizing the available evidence regarding the return to physical activity in individuals with surgical stomas, a scoping review was developed following the methodological approach of the Joanna Briggs Institute and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews criteria. Searches were conducted in Medline (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Cinahl, and Lilacs, as well as the meta-search engines TripDatabase and Epistemonikos, using MeSH terms. Included studies were written in Spanish, English, Portuguese, and German, without any limitation on the year of publication. A total of n = 15 studies was included (n = 2 qualitative; n = 2 case reports; n = 1 case series; n = 1 cohort; n = 8 cross-sectional; and n = 1 randomized clinical trial), which showed variability in the quality of the designs. The qualitative studies explored themes such as motivation, beliefs about physical activity, and other lifestyle factors. The case reports described physiological, psychological, and functional implications of returning to physical activity for specific individuals after ostomy surgery. Quantitative studies evaluated the effects of different types of physical activity on quality of life and tolerance to physical activity in these individuals, employing various measurement instruments. In conclusion, the evidence on returning to sports and physical activity after stoma surgery is limited and varied. While studies highlight the importance of social support and self-confidence, they generally lack rigor and primarily focus on adults and oncology patients. There is a need for more research to establish clear guidelines on physical activity type, frequency, and intensity to ensure safe and beneficial outcomes for individuals with stomas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise to Human Health)

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