Exercise and its effects on cognition and physiology in older adults.

A total of 114 adults between the ages of 50 and 80 yr. were recruited for a study of fitness. The participants were divided into Structured, Self-imposed, Social, and Nonexercise groups to reflect their levels of physical activity and then were compared on cognitive and physiological variables. Significant differences were noted for fear, assertiveness, depression, and percentage of body fat. Multiple discriminant analyses suggested that group membership could be predicted with 100% success for Structured exercisers compared to Social and Nonexercisers. However, predictability decreased when examining Structured and Self-imposed exercisers. One may infer that people who are more fearful, more assertive, and more depressed participated in exercise. Involvement in a 12-wk. exercise program significantly reduced depression and body-fat concentration.