Final answer:
The false statement about physical activity is that short-term exercise training significantly improves cognitive functioning, as such significant improvements are typically observed with long-term, regular exercise rather than short-term training.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement about physical activity that is FALSE is B. Short-term exercise training significantly improves cognitive functioning. While regular, long-term physical exercise has been shown to offer protection from dementia and other cognitive problems, and improve cognitive function overall, the cognitive improvements from short-term exercise training are not as pronounced and significant as the statement suggests. On the contrary, the other statements are well supported by research:
- Physical activity often improves the quality of sleep, with exercise being a recommended alternative to sleeping pills for those with insomnia.
- Physical activity decreases the risk of depression and anxiety, and regular aerobic exercise can be as effective as pharmaceutical antidepressants for mild-to-moderate depression.
- Stress tension declines significantly with physical activity, as exercise releases hormones that can have anti-inflammatory effects and promote positive psychological outcomes.
Therefore, while physical activity has many benefits for mental and physical health, the claim that short-term exercise training significantly improves cognitive function is the false statement among the options given.