ABSTRACT
Physical activity produces wide ranging positive effects at all levels of the nervous system from microscopic changes at the molecular level to systems level behavioural changes. Structural and functional change occurs because the nervous system is highly malleable. Neuroplasticity is greatest during development, but it continues throughout adolescence and adulthood as a result of experiential stimuli. In this chapter, we discuss how specific areas of the brain exhibit exercise-mediated morphological changes to both gray matter and white matter. We also discuss how structural and functional changes in the nervous system are associated with increased angiogenesis, synaptogenesis, and neurogenesis. Exercise-mediated plasticity and functional connectivity is further promoted by the up-regulation of neurotrophins by the regulation of specific neurotransmitters. Evidence is also presented to demonstrate that exercise is a potent neuroprotective agent that can reduce the effects of neurodegeneration. Importantly, we highlight that the exercise-mediated effects observed in the nervous system are not restricted to chronic exercise. Indeed, many positive, albeit transient, effects are induced through the acute exposure to exercise and through exercise interventions.
