Wang Q, Wang MD. Job vs leisure: Rethinking physical activity as a precision strategy for mental and cognitive aging in China. World J Psychiatry 2026; 16(11): 117569 [DOI: 10.5498/wjp.117569]
Corresponding Author of This Article
Ming-Da Wang, PhD, Assistant Researcher, National Center for Health Professions Education Development, Peking University Health Science Center, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China. 1715387840@qq.com
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Psychiatry
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review-article
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Wang Q, Wang MD. Job vs leisure: Rethinking physical activity as a precision strategy for mental and cognitive aging in China. World J Psychiatry 2026; 16(11): 117569 [DOI: 10.5498/wjp.117569]
World J Psychiatry. Nov 19, 2026; 16(11): 117569 Published online Nov 19, 2026. doi: 10.5498/wjp.117569
Job vs leisure: Rethinking physical activity as a precision strategy for mental and cognitive aging in China
Qiang Wang, Ming-Da Wang
Qiang Wang, Department of Physical Education, Anhui International Studies University, Hefei 231201, Anhui Province, China
Ming-Da Wang, National Center for Health Professions Education Development, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
Ming-Da Wang, Graduate School of Education, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
Ming-Da Wang, Faculty of Education, National University of Malaysia, Selangor 43600, Malaysia
Co-first authors: Qiang Wang and Ming-Da Wang.
Author contributions: Wang MD designed the study and wrote the original draft of the manuscript; Wang Q provided sport expertise, contributed to reviewing, revising, and editing the manuscript; both authors have read and approved the final version of the manuscript. Wang Q and Wang MD contributed equally to this work as co-first authors.
AI contribution statement: AI-assisted tools (e.g., ChatGPT) were used solely for language polishing and editing. The content, structure, and scientific arguments of the manuscript were developed by the authors. No part of the manuscript was fully generated by AI. AI tools were not involved in study design, data analysis, or interpretation of results. No figures or images were generated using AI.
Conflict-of-interest statement: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
Corresponding author: Ming-Da Wang, PhD, Assistant Researcher, National Center for Health Professions Education Development, Peking University Health Science Center, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China. 1715387840@qq.com
Received: December 10, 2025 Revised: January 6, 2026 Accepted: January 15, 2026 Published online: November 19, 2026 Processing time: 323 Days and 9.4 Hours
Abstract
Mental and cognitive decline represent major challenges in aging populations. Physical activity is widely promoted as a key strategy for healthy aging. However, its effects are not uniform and depend on purpose and context. Job-related physical activity (JPA), often characterized by high demands and limited autonomy, may induce chronic stress, insufficient recovery, and adverse neurocognitive outcomes. In contrast, leisure physical activity (EPA) is typically self-directed and socially engaging, supporting improved mood, neural plasticity, and cognitive function. In this review, we reconceptualize physical activity by distinguishing JPA from EPA and propose a precision-oriented framework for mental and cognitive aging. We first examine their differences in psychological meaning, autonomy, and recovery patterns, then discuss the underlying biological, psychological, and recovery-related mechanisms, as well as socioeconomic and contextual influences. Finally, we outline implications for public health and clinical practice, emphasizing a shift from volume-based metrics toward context-sensitive strategies to promote brain health in aging populations.
Core Tip: Not all physical activity is beneficial-its purpose and context determine its impact on mental and cognitive health. This review highlights the fundamental distinction between job-related and leisure physical activity, showing that occupational activity may increase stress and cognitive risk, whereas leisure activity supports emotional well-being and brain function. By integrating biological, psychological, and socioeconomic perspectives, this article proposes a precision-oriented framework that moves beyond simple activity metrics and provides new directions for public health and clinical strategies in aging populations.
