Exercise Training Benefits People with HIV, Slows Epigenetic Aging

A 16-week exercise training program demonstrated broad health benefits for people with HIV (PWH), including cellular damage repair and a slowdown in epigenetic aging, according to data presented at the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) 2026.

The Importance of Exercise for People with HIV

Although the benefits of exercise for overall health and managing age-related conditions in PWH are recognized, understanding the feasibility and specific effects of exercise within this population remains limited. Researchers are increasingly focused on evaluating exercise-related changes at the cellular level to refine exercise strategies and maximize benefits.

HEALTH Trial Findings

The study, based on data from the HEALTH trial, evaluated the impact of a 16-week exercise intervention on muscle DNA methylation in older PWH. DNA methylation is a process that can affect gene expression and is linked to aging and disease. Changes in methylation patterns can provide insights into how exercise influences physical function and recovery over time.

CROI 2026 Conference Details

The 33rd Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) took place from February 22 to 25, 2026, in Denver, Colorado. The conference featured original research on HIV and related conditions, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities.

Key Speakers at CROI 2026

Featured speakers at CROI 2026 included:

• Sharon Lewin, University of Melbourne
• Peter Staley, PrEP4All
• Linda-Gail Bekker, University of Cape Town
• Ilesh Jani, Ministério da Saúde
• Wesley I. Sundquist, University of Utah
• Todd T. Brown, Johns Hopkins University
• Jeanne M. Marrazzo, Infectious Diseases Society of America
• Kevin O. Saunders, Duke University
• Anneke Hesseling, Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Stellenbosch University

Clinical Guidelines Program

The Clinical Guidelines Program at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine manages information related to CROI 2026.

Looking Ahead

Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which exercise impacts physical function and recovery in people with HIV. These findings highlight the potential of targeted exercise interventions to improve the health and well-being of this population.