Resistance Training and Cognitive Domains in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Resistance Training and Cognitive Domains in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Short Report Resistance Training and Cognitive Domains in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis Danny Paollo Arruda This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-8734570/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Objective To analyze the association between resistance training practice and performance in specific cognitive domains among community-dwelling older adults. Methods This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Physical Evaluation Laboratory (LAF/SANNY – Ensino Multidisciplinar em Fisiologia do Movimento) of the Centro Universitário de João Pessoa (UNIPÊ), Brazil. Sixty older adults aged 60–70 years, of both sexes and with completed secondary education, were allocated into resistance training practitioners (n = 30) and sedentary individuals (n = 30). Cognitive performance was assessed using the CogState® computerized battery. Between-group comparisons were performed using the Mann–Whitney U test, with effect size estimates. Results Resistance training practitioners demonstrated significantly better performance in psychomotor speed and working memory compared to sedentary participants (p < 0.05), with moderate effect sizes. No significant differences were observed for attention and visual learning domains. Conclusion Regular resistance training practice is associated with superior performance in specific cognitive domains among older adults, reinforcing its relevance as a non-pharmacological strategy for cognitive health promotion. Introduction Population aging is a global phenomenon accompanied by an increased prevalence of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions (Harada et al., 2013; United Nations, 2020). Even in the absence of diagnosed dementia, age-related cognitive changes—particularly in processing speed, working memory, and executive function—may compromise autonomy and quality of life in older adults (Salthouse, 2019; Murman, 2015). Consequently, identifying accessible and effective strategies to preserve cognitive function has become a priority in gerontology and public health. Physical exercise has consistently been identified as a protective factor for cognitive health in aging populations (Erickson et al., 2019; Northey et al., 2018). While aerobic exercise has traditionally received greater attention, resistance training has emerged as a promising modality due to its effects on neuromuscular function, metabolic health, and neuroplasticity (Cassilhas et al., 2007; Liu et al., 2021). Evidence suggests that resistance training may enhance cerebral blood flow, increase neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and improve synaptic efficiency, thereby positively influencing cognitive performance (Voss et al., 2013; Herold et al., 2019). Despite growing interest, the literature remains heterogeneous regarding which cognitive domains are most responsive to resistance training, particularly among community-dwelling older adults (Northey et al., 2018; Barha et al., 2017). Moreover, studies conducted in low- and middle-income countries are still limited, highlighting the need for context-specific investigations that consider sociocultural and educational factors. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze the association between resistance training practice and performance in specific cognitive domains among older adults residing in the community. Methods Study design and setting This cross-sectional observational study was carried out at the Physical Evaluation Laboratory (LAF/SANNY – Ensino Multidisciplinar em Fisiologia do Movimento), located at the Centro Universitário de João Pessoa (UNIPÊ), João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil. Participants Community-dwelling older adults aged 60–70 years, of both sexes, were recruited by convenience from programs linked to the laboratory. Participants were allocated into two groups according to their physical activity status: resistance training practitioners and sedentary individuals. Inclusion criteria were: age between 60 and 70 years; completed secondary education; preserved functional independence; and ability to understand and complete computerized cognitive assessments. Exclusion criteria included: diagnosis of neurodegenerative disease; uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions; recent musculoskeletal injury; neurological disorders affecting cognition; and use of medications known to significantly impair cognitive function. Cognitive assessment Cognitive performance was assessed using the CogState® computerized battery, which evaluates multiple cognitive domains, including psychomotor speed, attention, working memory, and visual learning. The CogState battery has been validated for use in older adult populations and is widely employed in clinical and research settings due to its sensitivity and reliability. Statistical analysis Data distribution was assessed using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Descriptive statistics were presented as means and standard deviations or medians and interquartile ranges, as appropriate. Between-group comparisons were performed using the Mann–Whitney U test. Effect sizes were calculated using r values and interpreted as small (0.1), moderate (0.3), or large (≥ 0.5). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Ethical considerations The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and Brazilian National Health Council Resolutions No. 466/2012 and No. 510/2016. Ethical approval was granted by the Research Ethics Committee (CAAE: 51751415.0.0000.5176). Results Sample characteristics A total of 60 older adults participated in the study, comprising 30 resistance training practitioners and 30 sedentary individuals. Participants were aged between 60 and 70 years (mean 65.1 ± 3.1 years), with representation of both sexes. All participants had completed secondary education. Table 1 Sample characteristics Variable Resistance Training (n = 30) Sedentary (n = 30) Age (years) 65.2 ± 3.0 65.0 ± 3.2 Female (%) 53% 50% Secondary education (%) 100% 100% Cognitive performance Resistance training practitioners demonstrated significantly better performance in psychomotor speed and working memory compared to sedentary individuals (p < 0.05), with moderate effect sizes. Table 2 Cognitive performance comparison Cognitive domain Training (Mean ± SD) Sedentary (Mean ± SD) p-value Psychomotor speed 0.45 ± 0.08 0.52 ± 0.10 0.01 Working memory 0.62 ± 0.07 0.55 ± 0.09 0.02 Discussion The present study demonstrated that older adults engaged in resistance training exhibited superior performance in specific cognitive domains, particularly psychomotor speed and working memory, compared to sedentary peers. These findings are consistent with previous investigations indicating that resistance training may positively influence cognitive processes associated with executive control and information processing (Cassilhas et al., 2007; Liu et al., 2021; Barha et al., 2017). International studies have reported similar benefits, suggesting that resistance training induces neurophysiological adaptations, including increased cerebral perfusion, modulation of inflammatory pathways, and enhanced expression of neurotrophic factors such as BDNF (Voss et al., 2013; Herold et al., 2019; Erickson et al., 2019). These mechanisms may underpin the observed improvements in psychomotor speed and working memory, domains closely related to functional independence in older age. Although no significant differences were observed in attention and visual learning, these results align with previous literature suggesting that certain cognitive domains may be less sensitive to resistance training alone or may require longer intervention periods and higher training volumes to elicit detectable changes (Northey et al., 2018; Gates et al., 2013). This study has limitations inherent to its cross-sectional design, which precludes causal inference, and the use of convenience sampling, which may limit generalizability. Nevertheless, the study contributes valuable evidence from a Brazilian context, an underrepresented setting in the literature, reinforcing resistance training as a feasible and accessible non-pharmacological strategy for cognitive health promotion in aging populations. These findings support the inclusion of structured resistance training programs in public health strategies aimed at mitigating age-related cognitive decline. Declarations All participants involved in this study voluntarily agreed to participate and provided informed consent prior to data collection. The study was conducted in accordance with ethical standards, and the requirement for written informed consent was approved by the responsible Research Ethics Committee. Funding This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors. Declaration of Artificial Intelligence Use Artificial intelligence tools were used exclusively for linguistic and grammatical support, without influencing data analysis, interpretation, or scientific conclusions. Author Contribution DPLA was solely responsible for the conception and design of the study, data collection and analysis, interpretation of results, and manuscript writing. The study was developed from the author's Undergraduate Thesis. The author reviewed and approved the final version of the manuscript. References Barha CK, et al. Resistance training and executive functions: A systematic review. Br J Sports Med . 2017. Cassilhas RC, et al. Resistance exercise improves cognitive function in elderly individuals. J Sports Med Phys Fitness . 2007. Erickson KI, et al. Physical activity, fitness, and cognition. Nat Rev Neurosci . 2019. Gates N, et al. Cognitive and memory training in older adults. Ageing Res Rev . 2013. Harada CN, et al. Normal cognitive aging. Clin Geriatr Med . 2013. Herold F, et al. Functional and structural brain adaptations following exercise interventions. Neurosci Biobehav Rev . 2019. Liu Y, et al. Resistance training and cognitive health in older adults. Front Aging Neurosci . 2021. Murman DL. The impact of age on cognition. Semin Hear . 2015. Northey JM, et al. Exercise interventions for cognitive function in adults over 50: A systematic review. Br J Sports Med . 2018. Salthouse TA. Trajectories of normal cognitive aging. Psychol Aging . 2019. United Nations. World Population Ageing. 2020. Voss MW, et al. Exercise, brain, and cognition across the lifespan. J Appl Physiol . 2013. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-8734570","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Short Report","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":584337149,"identity":"ff94a69b-128c-4421-954e-22a2300ee3ff","order_by":0,"name":"Danny Paollo Arruda","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA5ElEQVRIiWNgGAWjYDCCA1Caj52B8QGQ5uEjWgsbMwOzAUgLGyla2CTADEI6+I6fPfaYd4edHBsz87HKrzl2MmwMzA8f3cCjRfJMXrox75lkYzZmtrTbstuSgQ5jMzbOwaPF4ECOmTRvG3NiGzOP2W3JbcxALTxs0ni1nH8D0lIP1lIsua2eCC03wLYcBmth/LjtMGEtkjfemEnOPXMc5JdkacZtx3mADPx+4TufYybxdke1HD9788GPP7dV2wMZDx/j0wICTLwNEAYzD5gkoBwEGH9CtTD+IEL1KBgFo2AUjDwAALRdPqX80+71AAAAAElFTkSuQmCC","orcid":"","institution":"Centro Universitário de João Pessoa","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Danny","middleName":"Paollo","lastName":"Arruda","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2026-01-29 18:53:21","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":{"humanSubjects":false,"vertebrateSubjects":false,"conflictsOfInterestStatement":false,"humanSubjectEthicalGuidelines":false,"humanSubjectConsent":false,"humanSubjectClinicalTrial":false,"humanSubjectCaseReport":false,"vertebrateSubjectEthicalGuidelines":false},"doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8734570/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8734570/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":101943007,"identity":"9eaa39fd-018f-4cbb-b7f5-d4744594e210","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-02-05 09:39:32","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":419729,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8734570/v1/5b70c742-7972-4731-abd9-bc4b440968e9.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Resistance Training and Cognitive Domains in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003ePopulation aging is a global phenomenon accompanied by an increased prevalence of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions (Harada et al., 2013; United Nations, 2020). Even in the absence of diagnosed dementia, age-related cognitive changes\u0026mdash;particularly in processing speed, working memory, and executive function\u0026mdash;may compromise autonomy and quality of life in older adults (Salthouse, 2019; Murman, 2015). Consequently, identifying accessible and effective strategies to preserve cognitive function has become a priority in gerontology and public health.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePhysical exercise has consistently been identified as a protective factor for cognitive health in aging populations (Erickson et al., 2019; Northey et al., 2018). While aerobic exercise has traditionally received greater attention, resistance training has emerged as a promising modality due to its effects on neuromuscular function, metabolic health, and neuroplasticity (Cassilhas et al., 2007; Liu et al., 2021). Evidence suggests that resistance training may enhance cerebral blood flow, increase neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and improve synaptic efficiency, thereby positively influencing cognitive performance (Voss et al., 2013; Herold et al., 2019).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDespite growing interest, the literature remains heterogeneous regarding which cognitive domains are most responsive to resistance training, particularly among community-dwelling older adults (Northey et al., 2018; Barha et al., 2017). Moreover, studies conducted in low- and middle-income countries are still limited, highlighting the need for context-specific investigations that consider sociocultural and educational factors.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTherefore, the present study aimed to analyze the association between resistance training practice and performance in specific cognitive domains among older adults residing in the community.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eStudy design and setting\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis cross-sectional observational study was carried out at the Physical Evaluation Laboratory (LAF/SANNY \u0026ndash; Ensino Multidisciplinar em Fisiologia do Movimento), located at the Centro Universit\u0026aacute;rio de Jo\u0026atilde;o Pessoa (UNIP\u0026Ecirc;), Jo\u0026atilde;o Pessoa, Para\u0026iacute;ba, Brazil.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eParticipants\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommunity-dwelling older adults aged 60\u0026ndash;70 years, of both sexes, were recruited by convenience from programs linked to the laboratory. Participants were allocated into two groups according to their physical activity status: resistance training practitioners and sedentary individuals.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eInclusion criteria\u003c/b\u003e were: age between 60 and 70 years; completed secondary education; preserved functional independence; and ability to understand and complete computerized cognitive assessments. \u003cb\u003eExclusion criteria\u003c/b\u003e included: diagnosis of neurodegenerative disease; uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions; recent musculoskeletal injury; neurological disorders affecting cognition; and use of medications known to significantly impair cognitive function.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCognitive assessment\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCognitive performance was assessed using the CogState\u0026reg; computerized battery, which evaluates multiple cognitive domains, including psychomotor speed, attention, working memory, and visual learning. The CogState battery has been validated for use in older adult populations and is widely employed in clinical and research settings due to its sensitivity and reliability.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eStatistical analysis\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eData distribution was assessed using the Kolmogorov\u0026ndash;Smirnov test. Descriptive statistics were presented as means and standard deviations or medians and interquartile ranges, as appropriate. Between-group comparisons were performed using the Mann\u0026ndash;Whitney U test. Effect sizes were calculated using r values and interpreted as small (0.1), moderate (0.3), or large (\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;0.5). Statistical significance was set at p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eEthical considerations\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and Brazilian National Health Council Resolutions No. 466/2012 and No. 510/2016. Ethical approval was granted by the Research Ethics Committee (CAAE: 51751415.0.0000.5176).\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eSample characteristics\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eA total of 60 older adults participated in the study, comprising 30 resistance training practitioners and 30 sedentary individuals. Participants were aged between 60 and 70 years (mean 65.1\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;3.1 years), with representation of both sexes. All participants had completed secondary education.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSample characteristics\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVariable\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eResistance Training (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;30)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSedentary (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;30)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAge (years)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e65.2\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;3.0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e65.0\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;3.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFemale (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e53%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e50%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSecondary education (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e100%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e100%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCognitive performance\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResistance training practitioners demonstrated significantly better performance in psychomotor speed and working memory compared to sedentary individuals (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05), with moderate effect sizes.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCognitive performance comparison\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCognitive domain\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTraining (Mean\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;SD)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSedentary (Mean\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;SD)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ep-value\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePsychomotor speed\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.45\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;0.08\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.52\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;0.10\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.01\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWorking memory\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.62\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;0.07\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.55\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;0.09\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.02\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe present study demonstrated that older adults engaged in resistance training exhibited superior performance in specific cognitive domains, particularly psychomotor speed and working memory, compared to sedentary peers. These findings are consistent with previous investigations indicating that resistance training may positively influence cognitive processes associated with executive control and information processing (Cassilhas et al., 2007; Liu et al., 2021; Barha et al., 2017).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInternational studies have reported similar benefits, suggesting that resistance training induces neurophysiological adaptations, including increased cerebral perfusion, modulation of inflammatory pathways, and enhanced expression of neurotrophic factors such as BDNF (Voss et al., 2013; Herold et al., 2019; Erickson et al., 2019). These mechanisms may underpin the observed improvements in psychomotor speed and working memory, domains closely related to functional independence in older age.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlthough no significant differences were observed in attention and visual learning, these results align with previous literature suggesting that certain cognitive domains may be less sensitive to resistance training alone or may require longer intervention periods and higher training volumes to elicit detectable changes (Northey et al., 2018; Gates et al., 2013).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study has limitations inherent to its cross-sectional design, which precludes causal inference, and the use of convenience sampling, which may limit generalizability. Nevertheless, the study contributes valuable evidence from a Brazilian context, an underrepresented setting in the literature, reinforcing resistance training as a feasible and accessible non-pharmacological strategy for cognitive health promotion in aging populations.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThese findings support the inclusion of structured resistance training programs in public health strategies aimed at mitigating age-related cognitive decline.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003eAll participants involved in this study voluntarily agreed to participate and provided informed consent prior to data collection. The study was conducted in accordance with ethical standards, and the requirement for written informed consent was approved by the responsible Research Ethics Committee.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFunding\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eDeclaration of Artificial Intelligence Use\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eArtificial intelligence tools were used exclusively for linguistic and grammatical support, without influencing data analysis, interpretation, or scientific conclusions.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAuthor Contribution\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eDPLA was solely responsible for the conception and design of the study, data collection and analysis, interpretation of results, and manuscript writing. The study was developed from the author's Undergraduate Thesis. The author reviewed and approved the final version of the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eBarha CK, et al. Resistance training and executive functions: A systematic review. \u003cem\u003eBr J Sports Med\u003c/em\u003e. 2017.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eCassilhas RC, et al. Resistance exercise improves cognitive function in elderly individuals.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eJ Sports Med Phys Fitness\u003c/em\u003e. 2007.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eErickson KI, et al. Physical activity, fitness, and cognition.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eNat Rev Neurosci\u003c/em\u003e. 2019.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eGates N, et al. Cognitive and memory training in older adults.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eAgeing Res Rev\u003c/em\u003e. 2013.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eHarada CN, et al. Normal cognitive aging.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eClin Geriatr Med\u003c/em\u003e. 2013.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eHerold F, et al. Functional and structural brain adaptations following exercise interventions.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eNeurosci Biobehav Rev\u003c/em\u003e. 2019.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eLiu Y, et al. Resistance training and cognitive health in older adults.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eFront Aging Neurosci\u003c/em\u003e. 2021.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eMurman DL. The impact of age on cognition.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eSemin Hear\u003c/em\u003e. 2015.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eNorthey JM, et al. Exercise interventions for cognitive function in adults over 50: A systematic review.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eBr J Sports Med\u003c/em\u003e. 2018.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eSalthouse TA. Trajectories of normal cognitive aging.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003ePsychol Aging\u003c/em\u003e. 2019.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u0026nbsp;United Nations. World Population Ageing. 2020.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eVoss MW, et al. Exercise, brain, and cognition across the lifespan. \u003cem\u003eJ Appl Physiol\u003c/em\u003e. 2013.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":true,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8734570/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8734570/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003ch2\u003eObjective\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo analyze the association between resistance training practice and performance in specific cognitive domains among community-dwelling older adults.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eMethods\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Physical Evaluation Laboratory (LAF/SANNY \u0026ndash; Ensino Multidisciplinar em Fisiologia do Movimento) of the Centro Universit\u0026aacute;rio de Jo\u0026atilde;o Pessoa (UNIP\u0026Ecirc;), Brazil. Sixty older adults aged 60\u0026ndash;70 years, of both sexes and with completed secondary education, were allocated into resistance training practitioners (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;30) and sedentary individuals (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;30). Cognitive performance was assessed using the CogState\u0026reg; computerized battery. Between-group comparisons were performed using the Mann\u0026ndash;Whitney U test, with effect size estimates.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eResults\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eResistance training practitioners demonstrated significantly better performance in psychomotor speed and working memory compared to sedentary participants (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05), with moderate effect sizes. No significant differences were observed for attention and visual learning domains.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eConclusion\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eRegular resistance training practice is associated with superior performance in specific cognitive domains among older adults, reinforcing its relevance as a non-pharmacological strategy for cognitive health promotion.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Resistance Training and Cognitive Domains in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2026-02-03 10:56:47","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8734570/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"18e03af1-cafe-4a03-9000-5c229bfb9751","owner":[],"postedDate":"February 3rd, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-02-03T11:06:23+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-02-03 10:56:47","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8734570","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8734570","identity":"rs-8734570","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}