Response of the autonomic nervous system at the onset of voluntary movement: possible association with adherence to exercise training

Abstract

We developed interval walking training (IWT) and a training system using the internet of things (IoT) and examined the adherence to and effects of IWT for a long period. We found that the adherence over 22 months averaged 70% and was highly correlated with a 12% increase in peak aerobic capacity (VO2peak) and a 13% improvement in lifestyle-related diseases. To identify factors affecting the adherence, we performed multiple regression analysis and found that vasopressin V1a receptor polymorphisms could affect the adherence. Regarding the mechanism, we found in free-moving mice that cerebral activation suppressed baroreflex control of heart rate, which was followed by voluntary locomotion with increased arterial pressure; however, these responses were abolished in V1a receptor knockout and wild-type mice locally infused with a vasopressin V1a antagonist into the nucleus tractus solitarii. Moreover, in these V1a receptor-impaired mice, motivated behavior was particularly reduced with impaired central suppression of baroreflex control. Recently, we also observed increased cerebral blood flow and the following pressor response in humans when they intended to start exercise, and that these responses were enhanced in subjects with higher VO2peak. These results suggest that the central pressor response is associated with adherence to exercise training by making it easier to start voluntary exercise.