Impacts of Physical Activity and Exercise on Metabolic Disorders

Metabolic disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, remain among the most pressing global health challenges. These conditions not only impair quality of life but also significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, endocrine dysfunction, and premature mortality. Lifestyle interventions are at the core of prevention and management, with physical activity and structured exercise consistently demonstrating profound benefits in improving metabolic health, enhancing insulin sensitivity, regulating lipid metabolism, and reducing inflammation. Despite this, there are still questions about the ideal types, intensities, and durations of exercise, as well as the mechanisms by which physical activity exerts its protective and therapeutic effects in apparently healthy populations, such as pregnant women, children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and the elderly. Physical exercise can also play a therapeutic role at all stages of life and in populations with already identified pathologies, whether in a clinical, community-institutional, or home setting.

This Research Topic aims to bring together cutting-edge research and expert perspectives to advance our understanding of the role of physical activity and exercise in preventing and managing metabolic disorders. By integrating evidence from basic science, clinical studies, and public health initiatives, the collection seeks to highlight both mechanistic insights and practical strategies for implementation.

We especially welcome contributions on:

1. Molecular and physiological mechanisms: insights into how exercise influences hormonal regulation, mitochondrial function, glucose and lipid metabolism, inflammatory pathways, and endocrine cross-talk.

2. Clinical and translational research: randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and meta-analyses examining the effects of exercise interventions on obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome.

3. Exercise modalities and protocols: comparative studies on aerobic training, resistance exercise, high-intensity interval training, and combined modalities, including dose-response effects and long-term adherence.

4. Special populations: research on pediatric, geriatric, and high-risk groups, as well as individuals with comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease or endocrine disorders.

5. Psychosocial and behavioral dimensions: the impact of exercise on quality of life, mental health, adherence, and barriers to participation, with attention to sex-specific and socio-economic influences.

6. Public health and preventive strategies: community- and policy-level approaches to promoting physical activity as a cornerstone of metabolic health, including digital health tools, implementation science, and school- or workplace-based interventions.

By showcasing innovative approaches and multidisciplinary insights, this Research Topic aims to inform clinical practice, support public health strategies, and inspire future research that integrates exercise as a fundamental tool for preventing and treating metabolic disorders.