Resistance training improves white matter structural connectivity in older adults at‐risk for cognitive decline

Diabetes is a global health concern that impacts 415 million people worldwide. Individuals who are at‐risk for diabetes (characterized by high blood glucose and/or being overweight) have white matter atrophy, decreased cognitive function, and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Recently, resistance training (RT) has been shown to lower white matter atrophy and white matter lesion volume. However, investigating changes in white matter tracts is complex, hence previous findings remain inconclusive. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) serves as a highly sensitive tool that enables visualization and characterization of white matter tracts and has the potential to combat this complexity. The study aimed to measure the effects of RT on structural connectivity in older adults at‐risk for cognitive decline using DTI.