Just one workout may sharpen an aging brain, small study hints

NCT ID NCT07623954

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study looked at whether a single session of different exercises—qigong, brisk walking, or elastic band workouts—could improve cognitive flexibility (the ability to switch between tasks) in 60 older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Participants did 30 minutes of moderate exercise or received health education. Researchers measured brain activity and thinking speed before and after. The goal was to see which type of exercise might help the brain work better, even after just one session.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

exercise (qigong, brisk walking, elastic band exercises)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could point toward simple, single-session exercise routines that help older adults with mild cognitive impairment think more flexibly.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study with only 60 participants and a single exercise session. Results may not apply to longer-term benefits or to people with more severe impairment.

Disclaimer Read more

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 COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Cognitive Dysfunction

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Shanghai University of Sport

    Shanghai, China