Resistance training and subcortical vascular cognitive impairment: A 12‐month randomized trial

Journal article

INTRODUCTION: It is unknown whether progressive resistance training (PRT) improves cognitive function in adults with cerebral small vessel disease and mild cognitive impairment (i.e., subcortical vascular cognitive impairment [SVCI]). METHODS: We conducted a 12‐month randomized trial comparing PRT versus balance and tone exercises (BAT) on the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale Cognitive Plus (ADAS‐Cog‐Plus). RESULTS: Ninety‐one participants were randomized (PRT = 45; BAT = 46); 76 completed the trial. Adherence was not different between groups (p = 0.18). At 12 months, PRT significantly improved ADAS‐Cog‐Plus scores (estimated mean difference: −0.18; 95% confidence interval [CI: −0.35, −0.01]; p = 0.04). Planned contrasts stratified by sex showed a significant PRT effect on ADAS‐Cog‐Plus scores for females (mean difference: −0.27; 95% CI: [−0.49, −0.05]; p = 0.02), but not for males. PRT also significantly reduced C‐reactive protein (estimated mean difference: −2.93; 95% CI: [−5.36, −0.49]; p = 0.02). No significant differences were observed for other secondary outcomes. DISCUSSION: PRT may have a small beneficial effect on cognitive function in SVCI. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02669394).

Authors: Liu‐Ambrose, T; Falck, RS; Dao, E; Crockett, RA; Barha, CK

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: Wiley
• Journal: Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association
• Volume: 22
• Issue: 3
• Article number: e71245
• Publication date: 2026-03-08
• Acceptance date: 2026-02-02
• DOI: 10.1002/alz.71245
• EISSN: 1552-5279
• ISSN: 1552-5260
• Language: English
• Keywords: progressive resistance training; randomized controlled trial; mild cognitive impairment; vascular cognitive impairment