The team points to mitochondria, the tiny power plants inside cells, as a likely link. Exercise stimulates mitochondrial changes that support stronger muscles and better metabolism. If a medication alters those processes, the downstream effects touch heart and metabolic health. For people managing chronic conditions or aiming to improve fitness, this raises practical questions about how treatments and training schedules should be coordinated.
This study opens a conversation about tailoring treatments to support long-term potential and inclusion in health planning. Clinicians and patients may want to weigh timing, dosing, or alternative strategies to preserve exercise benefits. Click through to explore the evidence and how these results could influence choices about medication, movement, and equitable access to interventions that help people thrive.
Rutgers scientists found that metformin can blunt many of the metabolic and cardiovascular improvements normally produced by exercise. Participants who took the drug saw reduced gains in fitness, blood vessel function, and glucose control. The interference may stem from how metformin affects mitochondrial activity.
