Your brain health may benefit more from cycling than walking, study finds

Your brain health may benefit more from cycling than walking, study finds

A recent study suggests that cycling could offer greater benefits for brain health compared to walking. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings and implications:

Key Findings:

  1. Greater Cognitive Benefits – The study found that cycling may enhance cognitive function, memory, and executive control more effectively than walking, possibly due to its higher cardiovascular intensity and greater neuromuscular engagement.
  2. Increased Blood Flow & Neurogenesis – Cycling’s aerobic intensity promotes better blood circulation to the brain, potentially boosting the growth of new neurons (neurogenesis) in regions like the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory.
  3. Higher Intensity, Better Results – Since cycling typically demands more energy and coordination than walking, it may stimulate brain plasticity (the brain’s ability to adapt) more effectively.
  4. Reduced Risk of Cognitive Decline – Regular cycling has been linked to a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, possibly due to its combined cardiovascular and motor complexity benefits.

Why Cycling Might Be Superior to Walking for Brain Health:

  • Cardiovascular Demand – Cycling often elevates heart rate more than walking, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain.
  • Motor Complexity – Balancing, steering, and pedaling engage multiple brain areas simultaneously, which may strengthen neural connections.
  • Adaptability – Cycling allows for varied intensity (e.g., interval training), which may be more effective in triggering brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein linked to cognitive health.

Considerations:

  • Accessibility & Joint Impact – Walking is still highly beneficial, especially for older adults or those with mobility issues.
  • Consistency Matters – Both activities improve brain health, but cycling may offer a slight edge for those able to engage in moderate-to-high-intensity exercise.
  • Combination Approach – A mix of cycling, walking, and strength training may provide the best overall brain health benefits.

If possible, incorporating cycling into your routine could enhance cognitive function more than walking alone. However, the best exercise is the one you enjoy and can sustain long-term.

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/brain-health-may-benefit-more-cycling-walking-dementia-alzheimers-study

https://www.healthandme.com/fitness/biking-can-help-your-brain-stay-young-study-finds-biking-to-reduce-risk-of-dementia-article-151889441

https://www.eatingwell.com/cycling-lower-dementia-risk-study-11757686

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