Abstract
Objective: To describe the neurobiological, cognitive and psychopathological impact of physical activity on individuals with schizophrenia. Bibliographic Review: The evolution of schizophrenia is related to neuropathological changes in the central nervous system, both in relation to the structure, as well as in relation to its functioning. Cortical changes reflect the clinical aspects of the disease, such as cognitive impairment, positive and negative symptoms. Regular physical activity has a neuroprotective and neurogenic effect on the brain, which seems to be able to delay the neurodegeneration characteristic of the disease with the potential to improve the psychopathological symptoms and cognitive performance of these patients. Final Considerations: Physical activity proved to be beneficial in relation to the neurobiological, cognitive effects and in the control of negative symptoms. However, there is no evidence of an improvement in psychosocial functioning through physical activity. Thus, there is a need for studies with larger samples, involving individuals in early stages or preclinical samples, to reliably assess the impact of physical activity on cognitive performance and psychosocial functioning.