Aerobic exercise may help ward off dementia, according to research findings. The study involved 16 people who performed various aerobic exercises such as using a treadmill, elliptical, or stationary bike. The participants worked out four times a week for the duration of six months. The study also included a control group of 19 individuals who completed stretching exercises for the duration of the study.
All of the participants had mild cognitive impairment and underwent brain scans after the study. The researchers found that those who partook in the aerobic exercise had greater increase in brain volume, compared to the stretching group. Furthermore, the aerobics group showed greater improvements in thinking and memory.
Lead investigator Laura Baker explained, “Even over a short period of time, we saw aerobic exercise lead to a remarkable change in the brain.”
Advertisement
Coauthor Jeongchul Kim added, “Any type of exercise can be beneficial. If possible, aerobic activity may create potential benefits for higher cognitive functioning.”
The present research adds evidence to the fact that exercise can offer benefits to the brain – as well as muscles.
Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
