Move More For Brain Health
What if picking up your pace on a daily walk could help your brain stay younger?
As we grow older, many of us think about how to stay sharp, independent and connected to the life we love. While there’s no single solution, one simple habit may make a meaningful difference: moving more throughout the day.
According to new research conducted by the AdventHealth Research Institute, older adults who engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity—such as brisk walking, cycling or jogging—tend to have brains that appear younger than their actual age.
Researchers found that time spent in higher-intensity movement stood out among daily habits. Even when compared with sleep, light activity or time spent sitting, moderate-to-vigorous activity was most closely linked to healthier brain structure in later years. In other words, not all movement affects the brain in the same way—adding moments of more active movement may offer unique benefits.
“Looking at the whole day helps us better understand how different behaviors work together,” said Audrey M. Collins, lead author and researcher at the AdventHealth Research Institute. “What stood out most was the unique role that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity may play in supporting brain health later in life.”
For many people, the idea of “higher-intensity” activity can feel intimidating. But it doesn’t have to mean intense workouts or long hours at the gym. A brisk walk that slightly raises your heart rate, a bike ride around the neighborhood or even active household tasks can fall into this category. The goal is simply to move with a bit more purpose.
The encouraging news is that small changes can add up. “Our findings suggest that adding more time in activities like brisk walking or cycling may benefit the brain,” said senior author Kirk I. Erickson “Small, consistent steps, like choosing a faster-paced walk or finding an activity you enjoy, can be meaningful ways to care for your brain and your overall health.”
While researchers are continuing to study how movement affects the brain over time, it’s clear that staying active is one practical way to support both your physical health and mental sharpness as you age.
