Study design and protocol
A single-blinded, randomized, parallel group, controlled study was conducted to explore physiological effects of cardiovascular exercise on the brain. Participants were allocated to either the intervention or control group following consent using a random number generator. Allocation was concealed prior to enrolment, with intervention personnel and participants unaware of the allocation until all baseline measures were complete. All experimental work was completed in a single session that involved baseline neurophysiological measures of corticospinal excitability, an exercise or rest condition (randomized 1:1), and a neuroplasticity assessment. The measure of neuroplasticity was performed using iTBS and assessments of corticospinal excitability (Fig. Experimental protocol. Following screening and randomization, procedures are shown with top describing the intervention arm, and bottom the control arm. Abbreviations: iTBS, intermittent theta burst stimulation; MEPs, motor evoked potentials.