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- Effects of combined aerobic-resistance training on health-related quality of life and stress in sedentary adultsPublication . Fernanda M. Silva; Ferreira, José P.; Teixeira, Ana M.; Massart, Alain; Duarte-Mendes, PedroIntroduction: Poor quality of life and psychological stress have been associated with worse clinical outcomes, including anxiety and depression disorders, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and premature mortality. Evidence suggested that physically active adults were more likely to report better quality of life and increased capacity to deal with stress, compared to their sedentary peers. This study examines the effects of 16 weeks of combined aerobic and resistance exercise training on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and stress levels in sedentary adults. Methods: This study involved previously sedentary middle-aged workers (n = 36), randomized, and allocated into control (n = 18) and exercise (n = 18) groups. The exercise group performed 16 weeks of combined exercise training for 75 min, three times/week. The HRQoL was assessed using the SF-36 survey and Satisfaction with Life Scale. Stress levels were assessed subjectively using the Perceived Stress Scale and objectively by the salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase concentrations. Intra- and inter-group analysis were performed using a mixed ANOVA or Friedman’s test. Results: In relation to SF-36 results, a significant improvement in the mental component summary (p = 0.047, Kendall’s W = 0.170 (small effect)) and social functioning subdomain (p = 0.040, Kendall’s W = 0.179 (small effect)) was found for the exercise group after the intervention. A significant difference between groups was found in mean differences (Δ) in the mental health subdomain, with superiority in the exercise group (exercise group, Δ = 7.50 vs. control group, Δ = −5.00; p = 0.006). After 16 weeks of follow-up, the exercise group perceived reduced stress levels compared to the control group (exercise group, Δ = −3.67 points vs. control group, Δ = 0.94 points; p > 0.05); although not significant, this result is clinically relevant. The exercise program had no significant effect on salivary stress biomarkers. Discussion: The present study’s findings may have important clinical implications because they show that middle-aged sedentary workers are likely to benefit from adopting a regular combined exercise training regimen to promote better HRQoL (i.e., mental health component) and wellbeing.
- Editorial: (un)healthy lifestyles, aging, and type 2 diabetesPublication . Duarte-Mendes, Pedro; Fernanda M. Silva; Teixeira, Ana M.Recent estimates from the IDF Diabetes Atlas indicate that diabetes affects 589 million adults worldwide in 2024, with type 2 diabetes (T2D) accounting for more than 90% of cases (International Diabetes Federation, 2025). This number is projected to reach 853 million by 2050. Age is an important risk factor for T2D, with estimates indicating that one in four adults with the disease (158 million) are over 65 years old. Poor lifestyle factors, such as lack of exercise, sedentary behavior, and poor diet, are important underlying factors in the development of obesity and insulin resistance, leading to T2D and cardiovascular disease (Lu et al., 2024; Bowden Davies et al., 2018). On the other hand, effective interventions, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, have been recommended to improve glucose metabolism in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals (Silva et al., 2024; Syeda et al., 2023; Kim and Kwon, 2024). In addition to engaging in regular exercise, studies have demonstrated the benefits of interrupting sitting time with regular bouts of movement (Syeda et al., 2023). Given the high prevalence of T2D, mainly in the middle-aged and elderly population, it is important to investigate the impact of (un)healthy lifestyles on metabolic markers and to create a set of strategies to prevent or control T2D and its related complications. This Research Topic, Editorial: (Un)healthy lifestyles, Aging, and Type 2 Diabetes, addresses these questions through nine complementary contributions.
- Editorial for the 1st edition special issue “benefits of physical activity and exercise to human health”Publication . Ferraz, Ricardo; Neiva, Henrique P.; Fernanda M. Silva; Duarte-Mendes, PedroRecent estimates indicate that the prevalence of insufficient physical activity has been increasing globally, with nearly one third of adults (31.3%) [1] and eight in ten adolescents (81%) [2] not meeting the World Health Organization physical activity guidelines (i.e., 150–300 min per week of moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic physical activity for adults and 60 min per day for children and adolescents [3]). According to authors [1,2], if the current trajectory continues, the global target of a 15% relative reduction in insufficient physical activity by 2030 [4] is unlikely to be achieved in most countries. This data are concerning given that, globally, 7.2% of all-cause deaths and 7.6% of cardiovascular disease deaths are attributable to physical inactivity [5]. Physical activity and exercise are widely recognized for promoting numerous health benefits, particularly in the prevention and management of obesity and cardiometabolic diseases [6,7], as well as in supporting immune function, reducing the risk of infectious diseases, improving mental health, and contributing to cancer prevention and control [8]. Moreover, regular engagement in these behaviors is associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality [9]. From a public health perspective, developing and implementing evidence-based strategies to increase physical activity and improve population health remains a global priority [8]. In this context, this Special Issue aims to advance knowledge on the role of physical activity and exercise interventions in promoting health and well-being across the lifespan. The contributions examine the effects of different exercise modalities on physical, cognitive, and mental health, as well as the role of physical activity in disease prevention and management and in improving functional capacity and quality of life across diverse populations. Collectively, the twelve papers included in this Special Issue provide complementary perspectives on these topics.