The Role of the Time of Day in the Effects of Exercise on Memory in Heathy Young Adults

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA, GREENSBORO · Apr 26, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how the time of day affects the way exercise influences memory in healthy young adults. Previous research has shown that even a single session of exercise can help improve memory, but this effect might vary depending on whether the exercise happens in the morning or later in the day. The researchers want to understand how moderate exercise impacts different types of memory and whether factors like heart rate and mental alertness play a role in this process.

To participate in the study, individuals need to be between 18 and 25 years old and currently active, meeting guidelines of at least 90 minutes of moderate or vigorous exercise each week. Participants will need to take part in two visits to the lab over four days and refrain from exercising outside the lab for a day before and during those visits. It's important to note that people with certain health conditions, such as heart or lung diseases, or those with injuries or mental health issues, won't be able to join the study. By exploring these connections, the research aims to provide better recommendations for when young adults should exercise to maximize the benefits for their memory, especially in academic settings.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Between the ages of 18-25.
• • Currently meeting the American College of Sports Medicine's recommended guidelines of activity (at least 90 min/week of moderate and/or vigorous physical activity).
• • Willing to participate for 4 days (2 visits) and refrain from exercise outside of the lab for 4 days (1 day before and the day of two visits).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Any known history of cardiac, pulmonary, or metabolic disease (e.g. cardiovascular disease, asthma, diabetes).
• • A current musculoskeletal injury, mental illness (e.g., depression, anxiety, or stress disorders), or sleep disorder.