Mean escape latencies (seconds) for 25, FR-2 escape trials measured in a shuttle box. Male Fischer 344 rats remained sedentary (Sed) or were allowed voluntary access to running wheels for 6 weeks. Following 6 weeks of the sedentary or exercise conditions, wheels in the cages of the exercised rats either remained unlocked and mobile (Run 0), or were rendered immobile with a metal stake. Rats were then exposed to no stress (No Stress) or uncontrollable stress (Stress) the next day, or 4, 14, or 24 days later. Behavioral testing occurred 24 h later, so that exercised rats were forced to remain sedentary for either 0 days (Run 0), 5 days (Run 5), 15 days (Run 15), or 25 days (Run 25) prior to behavioral testing. Values represent group means ± SEM. * p < 0.05 relative to all other groups except Sed Stress group; ** p < 0.0001 relative to all other groups except Run 25 Stress group.