{"id":201371,"date":"2025-06-21T02:03:16","date_gmt":"2025-06-21T02:03:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/201371\/"},"modified":"2025-06-21T02:03:16","modified_gmt":"2025-06-21T02:03:16","slug":"these-3-types-of-exercises-boost-brain-health-at-any-age-study-finds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/201371\/","title":{"rendered":"These 3 Types of Exercises Boost Brain Health at Any Age, Study Finds"},"content":{"rendered":"<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Working out can be a great way to protect your brain health\u2014and new research suggests <strong>you don\u2019t necessarily need to \u201cgo hard or go home\u201d to see benefits.<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> According to a large review first published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine this past spring, all kinds of exercise\u2014regardless of intensity level\u2014can significantly boost brain health for all ages.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> In particular, <strong>moderate-intensity exercise<\/strong> led to the most significant results for <strong>memory<\/strong> and <strong>executive function <\/strong>(like problem solving and reasoning). <strong>Low-intensity exercise<\/strong> was most beneficial for <strong>general cognition.<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Researchers also studied specific activities and found that <strong>active video games known as \u201cexergames\u201d<\/strong> delivered the most significant cognitive benefits, followed by <strong>mind-body activities such as yoga and Tai Chi.<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Here\u2019s what experts had to say about the new study, plus <strong>how to incorporate these three exercises<\/strong> into your fitness routine for the<strong> maximum brain boost.<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> For this study, researchers analyzed findings from 133 reviews that included over 258,000 participants.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Looking for patterns across the various reports, the researchers found \u201cstrong evidence that <strong>exercise improves general cognition, memory, and executive function across all age groups,\u201d <\/strong>said lead study author <a href=\"https:\/\/people.unisa.edu.au\/Ben.Singh\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ben Singh, PhD<\/a>, postdoctoral researcher in population and digital health at the University of South Australia.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> The benefits were especially noticeable for children, adolescents, and people with <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/adhd-overview-7187317\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">attention-deficit\/hyperactivity disorder<\/a> (ADHD), Singh told Health.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Other exercise factors that impacted brain health included:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li><strong>Intensity. <\/strong>Low- to moderate-intensity exercise had a slightly stronger association with brain health than vigorous or high-intensity exercise.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Intervention time. <\/strong>Committing to an exercise routine for even a short period of time (one to three months) was beneficial, particularly for general cognition. However, longer interventions were helpful for other aspects of brain health, too.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activity type. <\/strong>Exergames\u2014video games that require physical movement\u2014had the biggest effects on cognition and memory. Yoga, Tai Chi, or other exercises that require people to remember coordinated movement sequences were also particularly beneficial for memory.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201cThese findings reinforce the<strong> importance of incorporating even light physical activity into daily life<\/strong> as part of a long-term strategy for maintaining brain health,\u201d said Singh.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> This latest study is <strong>just a jumping off point,<\/strong> Singh said\u2014evidence quality varied, exercise protocols across studies weren\u2019t consistent, and most reports only looked at short-term cognitive benefits.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> However, this is yet another piece of evidence that <strong>moving more is good for your brain\u2014and yoga, Tai Chi, and exergames could be especially effective ways to do it.<\/strong> Here\u2019s what to know about each type of exercise.\n<\/p>\n<p>  Yoga  <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u200b<a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/yoga-8715089\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Yoga<\/a> is an ancient practice that combines <strong>physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation,<\/strong> said <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drannaemanuel.com\/\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"2\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Anna Emanuel, MD<\/a>, an integrative and functional medicine physician, yoga teacher, and founder of Love.Life Medical. This combination creates unique cognitive engagement that can improve brain health, Singh explained.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Yoga can help <strong>reduce stress and <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/inflammation-7480642\" link-destination-recommendation=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">inflammation<\/a>,<\/strong> in turn supporting \u201chippocampal function, the brain\u2019s center for memory,\u201d he said.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201cIt also strengthens the prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for decision-making, planning, and emotional regulation,\u201d Singh said.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> So what\u2019s the best way to get started with yoga (and reap its brain health benefits)? Start with <strong>short sessions\u2014maybe 20 to 30 minutes, two or three times a week,<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ascendantny.com\/contributors\/michael-genovese\/\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Michael Genovese, MD, JD<\/a>, physician and chief medical advisor at Ascendant New York, told Health.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Try styles such as <strong>Hatha or Vinyasa yoga, <\/strong>which blend gentle movement with breathwork, Genovese recommended.<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_43-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> And since <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/stress-management-8551051\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">stress reduction<\/a> is good for your brain, end each yoga session with meditation or a relaxation technique, added Singh.<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_45-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201cFollowing structured yoga programs specifically designed for brain health or mindfulness can further amplify the cognitive benefits,\u201d he said.\n<\/p>\n<p>  Tai Chi  <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_48-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.com\/tai-chi-memory-parkinsons-disease-8407135\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tai Chi<\/a> is a traditional Chinese martial art that <strong>combines slow movements and deep breathing<\/strong> to intentionally balance energy through the body, Emauel told Health.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_50-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201cOften described as \u2018moving meditation,\u2019 the sequence of movements aim to slow down the mind, body, and breath,\u201d she explained.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_52-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Tai Chi promotes cognitive health more effectively than other exercises because it focuses on <strong>slow, purposeful movements that connect the body and mind,<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.comprehendthemind.com\/team\/dr-sanam-hafeez\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sanam Hafeez, PhD<\/a>, a neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind, told Health. This \u201cactivates brain regions responsible for <strong>memory and motor functions<\/strong>,\u201d she said.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_54-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> People who practice Tai Chi also have to <strong>remember a specific set of movements,<\/strong> which challenges memory, added Genovese.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_56-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> And like yoga, the practice \u201c<strong>lowers stress,<\/strong> which usually means better focus and mental clarity,\u201d he said.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_58-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> For the greatest cognitive benefits, practice Tai Chi at least <strong>three times per week for 20 to 60 minutes<\/strong> per session, Singh said, ideally with a group.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_60-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201cEngaging in structured routines, such as the Yang or Chen styles, can be particularly effective, as they require memorization,\u201d he said. \u201cFocusing on controlled breathing and mindfulness during practice further enhances cognitive engagement.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p>  Exergames  <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_63-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Exergames are <strong>video games that require physical activity<\/strong> to interact with the game, making exercise both engaging and cognitively stimulating, Singh explained.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_65-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Per Singh, examples include:\n<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_67-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li><strong>Nintendo Wii Sports,<\/strong> which features games such as tennis and boxing<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dance Dance Revolution,<\/strong> a step-based rhythm game<\/li>\n<li><strong>Virtual reality fitness games,<\/strong> including Beat Saber, Supernatural, and FitXR<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_69-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201cYou are reacting quickly, following patterns, and solving challenges\u2014all while physically active,\u201d Genovese said. \u201cThis kind of multitasking can <strong>help sharpen attention, coordination, and memory.\u201d<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_71-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> On top of that, the highly interactive and gamified nature of exergames <strong>keeps you motivated,<\/strong> leading to more consistent participation and cognitive benefits over time, Singh explained.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_73-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> To maximize cognitive benefits, choose exergames that involve complex movements and decision-making, like <strong>rhythm-based or sports simulation games,<\/strong> Singh said. Play for at least <strong>20 to 30 minutes, three to five times per week.<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_75-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Not only should you pick games that challenge you mentally and physically, but you should also pick ones you find fun. \u201cThe more you enjoy it, the more likely you are to stick with it\u2014and that is where the real benefits come in,\u201d Genovese said.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Working out can be a great way to protect your brain health\u2014and new research suggests you don\u2019t necessarily&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":201372,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4322],"tags":[1630,105,16,15],"class_list":{"0":"post-201371","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-fitness","8":"tag-fitness","9":"tag-health","10":"tag-uk","11":"tag-united-kingdom"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@uk\/114718900577620594","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/201371","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=201371"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/201371\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/201372"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=201371"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=201371"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=201371"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}