Lifting weights to save your brain: study tests resistance training against cognitive decline
NCT ID NCT02669394
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This study tested whether a year of twice-weekly resistance training could protect brain health and thinking skills in 91 older adults with vascular cognitive impairment, a condition linked to small strokes. Participants were randomly assigned to either resistance training or a stretching and relaxation program. The researchers measured changes in cognitive function and brain white matter lesions to see if exercise could slow disease progression.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
resistance exercise training
What this could lead to
If successful, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to slow cognitive decline in people with vascular cognitive impairment.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early proof-of-concept study, not a large definitive trial. The benefits may be modest or not apply to everyone, and exercise programs require long-term commitment.
Disclaimer
Read more
Show less
This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for TRANSIENT ISCHEMIC ATTACK are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
University of British Columbia
Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Z 1M9, Canada