Five-Minute workout may sharpen your mind, tiny study hints

NCT ID NCT07385118

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Padova Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether a brain chemical called BDNF changes throughout the day and if a short, intense five-minute workout can raise BDNF levels and improve thinking. Fifteen healthy adults aged 18-40 completed thinking tests and gave blood samples before and after exercise. The goal was to see if daily BDNF ups and downs are linked to how well we think, and if exercise can give a quick mental boost.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: a five-minute high-intensity exercise routine
What this could lead to: If it works, this could help explain how even brief exercise might sharpen thinking and memory.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early study with only 15 people. Results may not apply to everyone, and the exercise effect might be too small to matter in daily life.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Motor Activity

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

BDNF

Contacts and locations

Locations

Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua

Padova, PD, 10034, Italy

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.