“When the Body Moves, the Brain Changes: Neuroplastic Adaptations Induced by Aerobic Exercise”

Aerobic exercise has gained recognition as an important factor influencing not only physical well-being and overall health but also brain structure and function. In recent decades, there has been emerging evidence showing the brain’s capacity to change, a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. Among the factors that modulate this process, aerobic exercise has proven to be a strong modulator of neural processes. This thesis aims to explore the neuroplastic changes induced by aerobic exercise, focusing on the biological mechanisms behind them and their effects on cognitive functioning. The work is based on a review of the existing literature mainly published between the years 2023-2026. Evidence suggests that aerobic exercise leads to significant neuroplastic changes, more precisely in regions such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. These changes include increases in gray matter volume, enhanced functional connectivity, and improved blood flow to the brain. At the molecular level, these effects are supported by processes such as neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and the increase of neurotrophic factors like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Consequently, these adaptations are associated with improvements in memory, executive functioning, mood and emotional regulation. Overall, aerobic exercise is a valuable, non-invasive approach, which plays a significant role in enhancing brain plasticity and mental well-being. Nonetheless, variability across studies indicates that further research is needed to understand when these neuroplastic changes happen and their long-term effects.