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In exciting new research from the University of Copenhagen and Bispebjerg Hospital, scientists have found that moderate physical activity can significantly protect nerve cells, including motor neurons, and help foster healthier aging. The study, published in Aging Cell, shows that regular exercise such as cycling, playing football, or hitting the gym can preserve the health of muscle cells and motor neurons well into old age.
The findings offer good news for those who don’t enjoy the idea of intense workout regimens or hours spent in crowded gyms. According to Postdoc Casper Søndenbroe, who led the study at the University of Copenhagen’s Center for Healthy Aging and Bispebjerg Hospital’s Institute of Sports Medicine, moderate, consistent exercise is enough to provide lasting benefits.
“Motor neurons are critical for movement, but they are particularly vulnerable to diseases like ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), and they naturally deteriorate as we age,” says Søndenbroe. “Our research suggests that regular physical activity can help protect these vital nerve cells, contributing to better muscle function and overall health as we get older.”
The study compared muscle cells from nine young individuals and 13 seniors. The senior group was split into two subgroups: one of individuals who had been physically active for many years and another of sedentary individuals. Notably, those in the active subgroup followed a variety of exercise patterns that reflected the typical habits of most people—ranging from team sports like football to individual activities such as cycling or weight training.
“Even moderate, realistic exercise patterns—like cycling to work, engaging in light weight training, or playing tennis—can make a big difference in how well we age,” explains Søndenbroe. “On average, people lose 2% to 3% of their muscular power every year after age 60, and this loss is linked to a decline in the connection between muscle cells and motor neurons. Exercise helps slow this process.”
The study’s results also highlighted a surprising role of fibroblasts—cells that contribute to the formation of connective tissue. While fibroblasts are often seen in a negative light when found in excess, the researchers found that in this case, they seemed to play a positive role in supporting motor neurons. This discovery may pave the way for future research into how these cells impact muscle-nerve interactions.
Importantly, the study also suggests that it’s never too late to begin exercising. Even individuals starting weight training at age 80 showed improvements in muscle-neuron interactions and strength, proving that exercise can benefit individuals of all ages.
“Starting an exercise routine, even later in life, can improve muscle-neuron communication and help you stay stronger and healthier longer,” concludes Søndenbroe.
This groundbreaking research offers new insights into how exercise can protect our motor neurons and muscles, laying the groundwork for more effective strategies to combat age-related muscle loss and neurodegeneration. So, whether it’s cycling, weight training, or just playing a friendly game of football, the message is clear: staying active is key to maintaining muscle and nerve health as we age.
For more details, see the full study in Aging Cell (DOI: 10.1111/acel.14413).
