Yoga, Aerobic and Stretching Exercise Effects on Neurocognition

Yoga, Aerobic and Stretching Exercise Effects on Neurocognitive Performance: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The investigators propose to conduct a 6-month 3-arm randomized controlled exercise trial among older adults to compare the efficacy of yoga with aerobic exercise and stretching-toning exercises on cognitive function, brain structure and function, cardiorespiratory fitness, functional fitness, and inflammatory and molecular markers. Using a single-blind, three arm randomized control trial, 168 older adults ages 55-79 will be assigned to either: a Hatha yoga group, an aerobic exercise group or an active stretching and toning control group. The groups will engage in hour-long group exercise sessions 3x/week. A comprehensive neurocognitive test battery, brain imaging, cardiovascular fitness test, and a blood draw will take place at baseline; end of the 6-month intervention, and at 12-month follow-up.

The proposed work will examine the relationship between yoga training and improved cognitive functioning as well as identify neurobiological correlates as potential mechanisms of action through which yoga training exerts its effect on cognitive function.

COVID-19 Precautions: Due to COVID-19, all exercise sessions will be conducted live via Zoom video-conferencing such that 1/3rd of the participants in each group will exercise in person with the research staff at UIUC campus once a week while the remaining 2/3rd will tune in via Zoom

Inclusion Criteria:

• 55-79 years of age at study enrollment
• TICS-M score of 32 or higher
• No current or past diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or dementias
• Low-active (≤ 2 days of 30 minutes of structured exercise/week)
• Physician's consent to participate in VO2max testing and the exercise program
• Ambulatory
• Absence of health conditions that may be exacerbated by exercise
• Good or corrected vision and hearing
• No MRI contraindications (e.g. metal or implanted devices in the body)
• Right-handed
• Intention to remain in the Champaign-Urbana area over the study duration

Exclusion Criteria:

• Below 55 or above 79 years of age at study enrollment
• TICS-M score of 31 or lower
• Current or past diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or dementias
• High-active (3 or more days of 30 minutes of structured exercise/week)
• Physician's non-consent to participate in VO2max testing and the exercise program
• Non-ambulatory (use of wheelchairs or walkers)
• Presence of health conditions that may be exacerbated by exercise
• Poor vision and hearing
• MRI contraindications (e.g. metal or implanted devices in the body)
• Left-handed
• Plans to travel outside of Champaign-Urbana area during the study