Research shows that jogging just once a month is enough to protect your memory later in life – even for people sitting on the sofa in their 50s or 60s.
Researchers from University College London (UCL) monitored the exercise habits of 1,400 participants over a period of 30 years.
When each person turned 69, the volunteers took a test to assess their memory, attention span, language and verbal fluency.
Those classified as moderately active — meaning they exercised one to four times a month — fared better than those who exercised less frequently.
At least 30 minutes of a variety of activities, including badminton, swimming, fitness training, yoga, dancing, soccer, jogging, or even just brisk walking, was counted as one workout.
Jogging just once a month is enough to protect your memory later in life, research shows – even for people who sit on the sofa in their 50s or 60s (stock photo)
Volunteers also completed questionnaires at five time points during the study – ages 36, 43, 53, 60 to 64 and 69 years. Overall, 11 percent of participants were physically inactive on all five counts, while 15 percent exercised at some point. Phase.
The majority of the group – one in five – said they exercise at least twice a month. Previous studies have shown that regular exercise can reduce the risk of developing dementia by a third.
Much of this research focuses on midlife fitness, with benefits for those who get the NHS-recommended 150 minutes of exercise per week.
But the researchers behind the new study say their findings are proof that every little bit helps and that it’s never too late to start.
Dr Sarah-Naomi James, a researcher at UCL and lead researcher of the study, will determine whether the exercise patterns can ultimately delay the onset of dementia
DR Sarah-Naomi James, a researcher at UCL and lead researcher of the study, said her study provides “evidence that inactive adults are encouraged to be even slightly active … at any time during adulthood” to improve cognition and memory to improve later in life.
Regular exercise is said to improve blood flow to the brain, leading to increased activity in areas related to learning and memory.
Dr. James will continue to monitor the cohort to determine whether the exercise patterns can ultimately delay the onset of dementia.
“We hope this will be the world’s first cradle-to-grave study – in which we have studied people throughout their lives,” she added.
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Crystal Leahy is an author and health journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a background in health and wellness, Crystal has a passion for helping people live their best lives through healthy habits and lifestyles.
