Exercise and Nervous System

Abstract

Voluntary physical training and exercise have favorable effects on the central nervous system and brain plasticity. The motor cortex and spinal cord possess the ability to alter structure and function in response to motor training. It is also reported that intensive training and exercise may enhance motor recovery or even restore motor function in people who have been long paralyzed due to spinal cord injury or stroke. We review the effects of exercise on the nervous system and discuss the mechanism for the exercise effects.