The effects of aerobic and resistance exercise on state anxiety and cognitive function

Summary Background There is a paucity of data directly comparing the effects of aerobic versus resistance exercise within a single cohort. Objective The study aimed to investigate the effects of an acute bout of aerobic and resistance exercise on state anxiety and cognitive function. Equipment and methods Participants completed three laboratory visits randomized between aerobic exercise (cycling at a self-selected intensity), resistance exercise (three sets; 10 repetitions; six exercises), and a control condition (seated rest). State anxiety and cognitive function were assessed before and after each condition. Results Reductions in state anxiety that approached significance were seen immediately following aerobic exercise yet were non-significant in the resistance and control conditions. Cognitive function significantly improved following aerobic exercise yet this was not evident in the resistance or control conditions. Conclusion Acute aerobic exercise at a self-selected intensity may be an effective way of reducing state anxiety and improving cognitive function, when compared to seated rest or resistance training.