Effects of Resistive Exercise on Cerebral Blood Flow Velocity and Pulsatility Index of Healthy People

Abstract

[Purpose] This study compared the cerebral blood flow velocity and pulsatility index different exercise intensities before and after resistive exercises to evaluate the benefits of regular resistive exercise for the prevention of brain injuries such as stroke. [Subjects] Twelve healthy male adults were recruited for this study. [Methods] Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography was used to measure the cerebral blood flow velocity and pulsatility index. The test was conducted in 4 stages: at rest, moderate exercise, peak exercise, and recovery. After the pretest, each subject was given a 1-hour resistive exercise to be performed three times a week for 12 weeks, following which, a posttest was performed, and the resulting data were analyzed. [Results] Cerebral blood flow velocity at all stages, except systolic recovery, showed significant reductions after the intervention. The pulsatility index did not differ significantly at any stage. [Conclusion] Resistive exercise reduced cerebral blood flow velocity; therefore changes in cerebral blood flow should be monitored for the prevention of cerebrovascular diseases.