Brain Boost Linked to Exercise Can Last Several Years, Scientists Find

Health Benefits of Exercise for the Brain

The connection between exercise and better brain health is well known. A new study shows that these benefits can last for several years, improving brain function in older adults for up to five years after certain types of exercise.

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Research on Exercise and Cognitive Decline

Researchers from the University of Queensland in Australia studied how staying active might prevent dementia. They focused on how much exercise is needed to make a difference in cognitive decline. Previous studies showed that exercise could reverse cognitive decline in mice by activating stem cell growth, which increases new neuron production in the hippocampus, a brain area linked to learning and memory.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Brain Health

The study found that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for six months improves brain function and maintains cognitive sharpness for years. “Six months of high-intensity interval training is enough to flick the switch,” says neuroscientist Perry Bartlett from the University of Queensland.

The Study Details

In the study, 151 participants aged 65-85 were divided into three exercise groups for six months: low-intensity (stretching), medium-intensity (brisk treadmill walking), and high-intensity (maximum effort on exercise bikes). Brain scans and blood samples measured changes in the brain. Only the HIIT group showed signs of cognitive improvement immediately after the exercise program and five years later.

Long-Term Cognitive Benefits

“We followed up with them five years after the program and incredibly they still had improved cognition, even if they hadn’t kept up with the exercises,” says neuroscientist Daniel Blackmore from the University of Queensland.

Future Research

While brain scans and biomarkers provide insights into cognitive ability, more analysis is needed to understand the biological mechanisms at play. The researchers also want to study how genetic factors influence these associations in larger groups of people. Different individuals react differently to exercise, so HIIT might not help everyone.

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Conclusion

This study adds to the evidence that exercise routines could help combat rising dementia rates in the elderly. The protective effects of exercise might last longer than previously thought. “If we can change the trajectory of aging and keep people cognitively healthier for longer with a simple intervention like exercise, we can potentially save our community from the enormous personal, economic and social costs associated with dementia,” says Bartlett.

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References

• David Nield, “Brain Boost Linked to Exercise Can Last Several Years, Scientists Find,” HEALTH, 19 July 2024.
• Perry Bartlett, University of Queensland
• Daniel Blackmore, University of Queensland