Exercise Improves Motor Memory Paper

“Acute Exercise Improves Motor Memory: Exploring Potential Biomarkers” is a study published in Neurobiology of Learning & Memory that focuses on the potential role several biomarkers have on exercise induced improvements of human motor skill acquisition and retention (Skriver et al., 2014). This correlational study expands on an earlier study conducted by Roig, Skriver, Lundbye-Jensen, Kiens, & Nielsen which found that a single cardiovascular exercise session improved motor skill learning by optimizing long-term motor memory (as cited in Skriver et al., 2014). Biomarkers examined included vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, and lactate. The main finding of the study was that motor skill acquisition and retention improved by acute cardiovascular exercise are associated with increased levels of biomarkers that play a role in memory and learning processes. …show more content…
The two group were matched for age, BMI, as well as fitness level measured by their peak oxygen consumption (VO2 peak). 48 hours later they returned to participate in the main experiment. After an intense session of cycling or rest, the subjects practised a visuomotor tracking task which consisted of matching as accurately as possible a double sine wave curve on a monitor using a remote control handle with sensors. Acquisition of the motor task was assessed during the practice and retention of the task was evaluated at three points thereafter: 1 hour later, 24 hours later, and 7 days later. To evaluate the effects of exercise on plasma concentration of each of the biomarkers, blood samples were drawn prior to the experimental session (to determine a baseline), immediately following the exercise or rest session, and at three intervals during the motor skill