Fitness
High-intensity exercise provides short boost to brain protein in PTSD sufferers
A new study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research has found that a single session of high intensity interval training can temporarily increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a brain protein important for memory and learning, in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the research also found that neither high intensity nor low intensity exercise led to sustained increases in BDNF over a period of nearly two weeks. These findings suggest that while intense exercise might offer a short-term biological boost, more research is needed to understand how exercise can best be used to support long-term brain health in people with PTSD.
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a terrifying event. These events can include serious accidents, physical or sexual assault, war, natural disasters, or other life-threatening situations. People with PTSD can experience a range of distressing symptoms that significantly interfere with their daily lives. These symptoms can include re-experiencing the trauma through nightmares or flashbacks, avoiding reminders of the trauma, negative changes in mood and thinking, and feeling constantly on edge or hyperaroused. While effective treatments like therapy exist, many individuals with PTSD continue to struggle with their symptoms, highlighting the need for additional and complementary approaches to care.
Researchers are increasingly interested in biological factors that might contribute to PTSD and its treatment. One such factor is BDNF, a protein that acts like fertilizer for the brain, helping to support the survival, growth, and connection of brain cells. It plays a key role in brain plasticity, which is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life.
Studies have shown that individuals with PTSD often have lower levels of BDNF in their bloodstream compared to people without the condition. This reduced level of BDNF may play a role in some of the difficulties faced by individuals with PTSD, such as problems with processing and overcoming traumatic memories. For example, BDNF is thought to be involved in the brain’s ability to ‘extinguish’ fear memories – to learn that a previously feared situation is now safe. If BDNF levels are low, this process might be impaired, potentially contributing to the persistent fear and anxiety seen in PTSD.
Because of BDNF’s importance in brain health and its potential link to PTSD, researchers are eager to explore ways to increase BDNF levels in individuals with this condition, hoping to find new avenues for improving treatment and recovery. Given that physical exercise has been shown to boost BDNF in other populations, the researchers sought to determine whether exercise could be a way to raise BDNF levels and potentially alleviate PTSD symptoms.
To conduct their research, the team recruited 40 adults who had been diagnosed with PTSD. Participants were carefully screened to ensure they met specific criteria, including having a confirmed diagnosis of PTSD according to established guidelines. Individuals with certain other serious mental health conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, those with current substance abuse issues, or those at immediate risk of suicide were excluded from the study. People who were already engaging in a significant amount of regular exercise were also not included, to ensure that the exercise interventions in the study would be the primary factor influencing any changes. Importantly, individuals who were taking psychiatric medications or undergoing psychotherapy were allowed to participate, as long as their medication doses and therapy type had been stable for at least two months prior to the study.
Once enrolled, participants underwent a thorough physical examination, including a fitness test to determine their individual exercise capacity and maximum heart rate. This personalized assessment was important to tailor the exercise programs to each person’s fitness level and to ensure safety. Participants were then randomly assigned to one of two exercise groups: high intensity interval training or low intensity training. The exercise period lasted for 12 days, with participants engaging in exercise sessions every other day, for a total of six sessions. Each session was 30 minutes long and consisted of a warm-up, 20 minutes of the assigned exercise type, and a cool-down period.
The high intensity interval training involved cycling on an exercise bike. During the high intensity intervals, participants were encouraged to cycle at a pace that elevated their heart rate to above 77% of their maximum heart rate. This high intensity period was followed by a recovery interval where they cycled at a lower intensity allowing their heart rate to drop below 77% of their maximum. Each high intensity interval training session included ten cycles of high intensity and recovery. The low intensity training was designed to be less strenuous. It consisted of a series of gentle movements and stability exercises inspired by yoga, but without the focus on breathing or mindfulness that is often part of yoga practice. The goal was to keep participants’ heart rates below 70% of their maximum during these sessions. Throughout all exercise sessions, participants wore heart rate monitors to ensure they were exercising at the correct intensity.
To measure BDNF levels, the researchers collected blood samples from participants on the first and last days of the exercise period. On each of these days, blood was drawn both before and immediately after the exercise session. These blood samples were carefully processed to measure the amount of BDNF in the serum, which is the liquid part of the blood. Because BDNF is also found in platelets, blood cells that help with clotting, the researchers also measured platelet counts in the participants’ blood and took these counts into account when analyzing the BDNF data, to get a more precise measure of BDNF levels. In addition to these biological measures, participants also completed a questionnaire each day to track their PTSD symptoms.
The study’s findings revealed that high intensity interval training did indeed lead to a short-term increase in BDNF levels. Immediately after a high intensity interval training session, participants in this group showed a significant rise in BDNF in their blood, both on the first and last days of the exercise period. This increase was observed even after accounting for platelet counts. In contrast, the low intensity training group did not experience a similar increase in BDNF levels after their exercise sessions.
However, the researchers also found that neither type of exercise, high intensity or low intensity, resulted in a sustained increase in BDNF levels over the 12-day exercise period. When comparing BDNF levels from the beginning to the end of the study, there was no significant change in either exercise group.
Finally, while the study explored whether the short-term increase in BDNF was related to improvements in PTSD symptoms, no strong link was found. There was a slight suggestion that individuals who experienced a larger increase in BDNF after exercise might also report slightly greater day-to-day improvements in their symptoms, but this trend was not statistically strong.
The researchers concluded that high intensity interval training “might be a beneficial form of exercise for individuals with PTSD regarding serum BDNF levels,” but “further studies are needed to investigate whether transient and long-term BDNF increase contributes to a reduction of PTSD symptoms.”
In particular, future research could build upon these findings by examining larger groups of individuals with PTSD and specifically considering potential gender differences in the response to exercise. Longer-term studies are also needed to investigate whether regular high intensity interval training, or other forms of exercise, can lead to sustained increases in BDNF and, importantly, whether these increases translate into meaningful reductions in PTSD symptoms over time. Understanding how exercise affects BDNF in individuals with PTSD could pave the way for developing more effective and personalized exercise interventions to support their recovery and well-being.
The study, “Effects of high intensity interval training on serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor in individuals with PTSD,” was authored by Annabell Jäger, Anima Pieper, Kathlen Priebe, Rainer Hellweg, Kristina Meyer, Sarah Herrmann, Bernd Wolfarth, Maximilian Grummt, Andreas Ströhle, and Nikola Schoofs.
Fitness
How Jeremy Clarkson Reset His Health and Fitness at 66 – Walking, Pilates and Trying ‘Not to Die’
Rewind a decade or so, and Jeremy Clarkson had a particular disdain for exercise, healthy eating and denying himself life’s pleasures. He never worked out, smoked 40 cigarettes a day and, in his own words, drank four pints of wine daily. Now, at 65, his entire outlook on health and longevity has shifted.
At the heart of Clarkson’s desire to change are his young grandchildren.
‘I’m not going to dwell on the joys of being a grandparent because what can be said about it has already been said. But I have decided that it is so wonderful that I want it to go on for as long as is humanly possible. Which means I must do everything in my power not to die,’ he wrote in his column forThe Times.
And the British TV personality has certainly had a couple of wake-up calls.
After being admitted to hospital with pneumonia in 2017, Clarkson then suffered what he described as ‘really bad coronary artery problems’ at the end of 2024. Documented in the latest series of Clarkson’s Farm, he experienced a ‘sudden deterioration’ in his health and needed a stent fitted to restore proper blood flow.
Why Clarkson Finally Started Taking His Health Seriously
Since then, he has taken up reformer Pilates, had a pickleball court installed at his Oxfordshire home and started going for walks when the weather is just right.
‘Eventually, I decided that organised, indoor exercise was not for me and decided instead to do walking. Not when it’s raining obviously. Or if it’s too cold, or hot. And not if I’m busy. But on a reasonably temperate Sunday morning, I’d get out there and pootle along,’ he wrote.
‘So far I’ve relied on luck to keep me alive. But I’m in sniper’s alley right now and I have to work at dodging the bullets. Two years ago, I saw old age as a wearisome tangle of tubes and knee-replacement surgery. Now though, thanks to my grandchildren, I’m actively looking forward to it.’
Clarkson’s comments highlight just how much his attitude to ageing has changed.
‘I’m buying time. It hurts and it’s expensive. But it’s better than wasting your money on a new watch.’
The Diet Changes Behind Clarkson’s 3-Stone Weight Loss
Diet has also become a key part of his health overhaul.
He now eats burgers wrapped in lettuce rather than buns and opts for alcohol-free versions of his Hawkstone beer. Underpinning much of that change has been a microdose of the GLP-1 medication Mounjaro, which Clarkson credits with helping him lose more than three stone in six months by suppressing his appetite – although he admits he doesn’t particularly enjoy the experience.
‘When you are on Muntjac [his name for Mounjaro] you can come down in the morning and idly help yourself to a small handful of sunflower seeds,’ Clarkson said. ‘And it’ll feel like you’ve just finished a massive Christmas lunch. You’re stuffed.
‘So you find yourself living a minibar existence. Tiny packets of milk, sachets with only three grains of sugar in them, vodka in thimbles. That’s not living, though. That’s existing.’
If there’s one thing Kori Sampson knows, it’s how to optimise your body composition for performance. To tap into his knowledge as an elite athlete and coach, we asked him to create a 4-week plan to help you move faster, recover quicker and keep pushing when the fatigue sets in – all while improving your muscle-to-fat ratio.
Ready to build muscle, burn fat and come out the other side looking, feeling and performing better? Click here to get 14 days of free access to the plan via the Men’s Health app.
Ryan is a Senior Writer at Men’s Health UK with a passion for storytelling, health and fitness. Having graduated from Cardiff University in 2020, and later obtaining his NCTJ qualification, Ryan started his career as a Trainee News Writer for sports titles Golf Monthly, Cycling Weekly and Rugby World before progressing to Staff Writer and subsequently Senior Writer with football magazine FourFourTwo.
During his two-and-a-half years there he wrote news stories for the website and features for the magazine, while he also interviewed names such as Les Ferdinand, Ally McCoist, Jamie Redknapp and Antonio Rudiger, among many others. His standout memory, though, came when getting the opportunity to speak to then-Plymouth Argyle manager Steven Schumacher as the club won League One in 2023.
Having grown up a keen footballer and playing for his boyhood side until the age of 16, Ryan got the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland national futsal team eight times, scoring three goals against England, Scotland and Gibraltar. Now past his peak, Ryan prefers to mix weightlifting with running – he achieved a marathon PB of 3:31:49 at Manchester in April 2025, but credits the heat for failing to get below the coveted 3:30 mark…
You can follow Ryan on Instagram or on X
Fitness
Fitness coach debunks 8 ‘crazy’ exercise myths women still believe: From periods and workouts to weightlifting
Despite growing awareness around fitness and women’s health, several outdated exercise myths continue to persist. From misconceptions about strength training to beliefs surrounding periods, pregnancy and weight loss, many women still receive advice that isn’t backed by science. These myths can not only slow progress but also discourage women from prioritising their health and fitness. (Also read: Can eating too much protein be harmful? Experts explain why excess intake may do more harm than good )
Fitness coach Zoe recently addressed some of the most common misconceptions women continue to hear in a June 12 Instagram post titled, “craziest exercise myths women still hear.” Here’s what she had to say:
1. Periods mean complete bed rest
According to Zoe, menstruation does not mean you need to stop exercising altogether. “No. You can train. Just adjust intensity if needed,” she wrote, explaining that while energy levels may fluctuate during different phases of the menstrual cycle, movement and exercise can still be beneficial.
2. After marriage or kids, fitness is not important
Many women are often made to feel that fitness should take a back seat after major life changes such as marriage or motherhood. Zoe strongly disagrees. “That is exactly when it becomes more important,” she said, highlighting the need to maintain strength, mobility and overall health while navigating increased responsibilities.
3. A C-section means your core is gone forever
Recovering from a Caesarean delivery can be challenging, but Zoe says it doesn’t mean women should give up on rebuilding strength. “Wrong. It means you need rebuilding, not giving up,” she wrote, emphasising that gradual rehabilitation and proper training can help restore core function.
4. Walking around the house is enough exercise
While daily movement is important, Zoe points out that it isn’t the same as a structured workout. “No. That is movement, not full training,” she explained, noting that a balanced fitness routine should include strength, mobility and cardiovascular exercises.
5. Sweating more means more fat loss
Many people associate excessive sweating with effective fat burning, but Zoe says that’s a common misunderstanding. “No. It means you are hot,” she wrote. Sweat is the body’s cooling mechanism and does not necessarily reflect the number of calories burned or fat lost.
6. Running will ruin your uterus, boobs or joints
This long-standing myth often discourages women from running or high-impact activities. “No. Poor preparation and weak support is the issue,” Zoe said, stressing the importance of proper training, supportive gear and gradually building endurance.
7. Women should only do yoga, not weights
Strength training is still viewed by some as a male-dominated form of exercise, but Zoe believes women benefit greatly from lifting weights. “Women need strength too,” she wrote, highlighting how resistance training supports muscle mass, bone health, metabolism and overall fitness.
8. Carbs at night make you fat
Carbohydrates often get unfairly blamed for weight gain, especially when eaten in the evening. “No. Overeating does,” Zoe explained, pointing out that overall calorie intake and dietary patterns matter far more than the timing of carbohydrate consumption.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
For Hobart teacher Mary Holton, health means everything.
She started feeling the squeeze from cost-of-living pressures when fuel prices spiked again.
“Going out for just fitness alone was a bit much,”
she said.
Mary Holton says since joining the group, her fitness across the board has improved. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
Many Tasmanians are feeling cost-of-living pressures in a very physical way, with locals saying exercise routines are being dropped, health appointments delayed and wellbeing pushed to the bottom of the list as budgets tighten.
Ms Holton relies on multiple physiotherapy sessions each week, but says paid fitness classes simply are not an option.
“That costs … so to actually go to other classes as well, it’s out of my budget really.“
Ollie Mathewson conducts a free workout session. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
National data shows that almost half of Australians already fall short of minimum physical activity guidelines, and rising prices are making even basic care unaffordable for many.
Consultant clinical psychologist academic Kimberley Norris says this is exactly how unhealthy patterns begin.
“We tend to focus on the most stressful thing first … and health is one of those things we don’t think about until things go wrong,”
Professor Norris said.
Kimberley Norris says humans tend to focus on alleviating stress first and foremost, and warns de-prioritising health can become a cycle. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
For Ms Holton, going to a free workout group in her local community was a game-changer.
“Came down and absolutely loved it. It’s really nice to have a group and it just keeps growing,” she said.
Finding a free exercise group has drastically improved her health, as noted by her GP, and she is part of a growing trend.
Free exercise classes become a lifeline
At a community exercise class in South Arm, south-east of Hobart, the mood is upbeat, with laughter, movement, and a sense of relief.
Participation has more than doubled in the past year, with more than 100 Tasmanians now involved.
Trainer Ollie Mathewson said the surge was unmistakable.
“It’s free of charge for everybody … and over the last 12 months I’ve noticed a lot more people starting to come along,”
he said.
Ollie Mathewson says attendance at his classes has almost doubled over the past year. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
Across greater Hobart, free and low-cost alternatives are multiplying and include walking groups, community-run circuits, and morning and afternoon fitness meet-ups.
Tasmanians are increasingly organising their own solutions.
Mr Mathewson said connections drive outcomes.
“A lot of people talk about weight and strength, which are obviously insanely important, having other people there to push you single every week makes it a hundred times easier.“
Professor Norris said one’s health can be prioritised for free.
“What we know about health is, it’s more about sustainable wellbeing, it’s about quality of life,” she said.
“So rather than focusing on how much you can deadlift, how far you can run, it’s about how your life has improved and how close your life is to the way you want to live it.”
She said free options were vital because once people stop moving, it becomes harder to start again.
“If we develop routines in which health is not a priority, then we almost get stuck in this cycle of health always being last.“
Health appointments being delayed or dropped
For some Tasmanians, the financial pressure is forcing even tougher choices.
Amy Dakin says she can’t even think about getting a gym membership with all the other costs of living on her mind. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
Amy Dakin, who lives with a compromised immune system, often has no choice but to delay essential care.
“My health needs to be prioritised, but your bills come first, really,” she said.
Jordyn Rowbottom says she’s not the only one changing her hobbies to save on costs. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
Jordyn Rowbottom has seen the same pattern around her.
“People are being forced to cut what they can access,”
she said.
Professor Norris warns that these short-term decisions can create long-term harm, not just for individuals, but for the broader health system.
She said the combination of financial pressure and reduced physical activity would create a public health challenge.
Trainers adapting to shrinking budgets
Personal trainer Nickola Orr works with clients across different income levels, ages and needs.
She said affordability now shapes almost every program she designs.
“You want to make sure they can get as much help as they can within their price range,”
she said.
Nickola Orr is concerned about access to fitness and health services in the face of rising cost pressures. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
With the median individual spend on fitness in Tasmania sitting at almost $600 last year, Ms Orr said the warning signs were already visible.
“We’re going to see more results of long-term neglect; higher injuries, more need for mental health assistance. It’s going to snowball.”
Her concerns echo Professor Norris’s academic findings that once healthy routines break down, the consequences ripple for years.
“The changes are very small … while they add up over time, there is no immediate impact,”
Ms Orr said.
Calls for more free and low-cost options
Mr Mathewson hopes the success of free community classes will inspire governments and private operators to expand accessible fitness programs.
“More free options would be a great thing. There are a few now, but there should be more,” he said.
The Tasmanian government has said it will release its 20-year preventive health strategy this month, titled The Health Revolution.
A Department of Health spokesperson said the strategy “will address the broader social, economic, and environmental factors that influence health and wellbeing”.
“Specific issues about access to health services and programs are being considered through the Access to Health Services project, a Commonwealth-State partnership.
“The Health Revolution will complement that project by addressing the root causes of poor health and the underlying conditions to make it easier for Tasmanians to live well.“
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