Think rest is best after a concussion? Think again! A study published in the February 2025 issue of the Journal of Sports Sciences titled “Sub-symptom Threshold Aerobic Exercise Improves Executive Function in Individuals with Sport-Related Concussion” explores the impact of controlled aerobic exercise on cognitive recovery post-concussion. The University of Western Ontario in Canada research team studied 16 participants over a five-month period who were diagnosed with sport-related concussion.
Participants comprised of 11 males and 5 females and were age 17-25 years old. This study is small, but the findings are promising and imply a different approach to concussion management.
Key Findings:
- Sport-related concussion symptomology was not enhanced when assessed immediately postexercise
- Benefits did appear 24 hours later
- People who experienced a sport-related concussion showed improvement in executive function following one aerobic exercise session that reached sub-symptom thresholds
What this means for concussion patients who have suffered a sport-related concussion:
This research challenges the traditional approach of complete rest following a concussion, suggesting that carefully managed aerobic exercise can be beneficial for cognitive recovery. Healthcare providers may consider incorporating sub-symptom threshold aerobic activities into rehabilitation programs for individuals recovering from sport-related concussions. For a more comprehensive understanding, readers are encouraged to access the full study here: Sub-symptom threshold aerobic exercise improves executive function during the early stage of sport-r