Effects and mechanisms of different exercise modalities on inflammation in older adults, particularly with sarcopenia: a narrative review - Report - MDSpire

Effects and mechanisms of different exercise modalities on inflammation in older adults, particularly with sarcopenia: a narrative review

  • By

  • Yanxia Shang

  • Yanfeng Shang

  • June 8, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Impact and Mechanisms of Various Exercise Types on Inflammation

Overview

This narrative review examines the effects of different exercise modalities on inflammation in older adults with sarcopenia. It highlights the distinct anti-inflammatory mechanisms of aerobic exercise, resistance training, and high-intensity interval training.

Background

Sarcopenia, characterized by the loss of muscle mass and function, poses significant health risks for older adults, including increased disability and mortality. Chronic low-grade inflammation, or 'inflammaging', is a critical factor in the development of sarcopenia. Understanding how various exercise types can modulate inflammation is essential for developing effective interventions to manage this condition.

Data Highlights

No numerical data presented in the article.

Key Findings

  • Aerobic exercise primarily reduces systemic inflammatory markers and enhances metabolic regulation.
  • Resistance training mainly mitigates muscle-derived inflammatory signaling and promotes anabolic responses.
  • High-intensity interval training and combined training have complementary effects on both systemic and local inflammation.
  • Exercise-induced anti-inflammatory effects are linked to the suppression of pro-inflammatory pathways and activation of regulatory pathways.
  • Exercise modulates myokine secretion and immune cell phenotypes, improving the inflammatory microenvironment in skeletal muscle.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should consider incorporating various exercise modalities into treatment plans for older adults with sarcopenia to effectively manage inflammation. Tailoring exercise prescriptions based on individual needs may enhance outcomes related to muscle health and overall well-being.

Conclusion

Different exercise modalities offer unique benefits in reducing inflammation associated with sarcopenia. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms can inform personalized exercise interventions for older adults.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Frontiers in Immunology, 2026 -- Effects of exercise interventions on inflammatory biomarker levels in older adults with frailty and/or sarcopenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  2. Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR), 2026 -- Effectiveness of Digital Health Interventions in Older Adults With Frailty and Sarcopenia: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
  3. British Journal of Biomedical Science, 2026 -- Correlation between oxidative stress and inflammation with metabolomics profile in skeletal muscle of ageing animal model and its modulation by tocotrienol-rich fraction
  4. Clinical Research in Cardiology, 2023 -- The Relationship Between Sarcopenia, Its Components, and All-Cause Mortality in Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
  5. Nature Aging, 2025 -- A focus shift from sarcopenia to muscle health in the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2025 Consensus Update
  6. A focus shift from sarcopenia to muscle health in the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2025 Consensus Update | Nature Aging
  7. Frontiers | Effects of exercise interventions on inflammatory biomarker levels in older adults with frailty and/or sarcopenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  8. Exercise and nutrition strategies for sarcopenia in older adults: evidence from a network meta-analysis based on EWGSOP and AWGS criteria

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