excess weight, high blood pressure, smoking and drinking, according to the findings published in the journal Neurology.
Researchers are also learning about the brain benefits of cardio exercise from lab studies — those done on animals. One study found that sustained aerobic activity — such as daily jogging for several miles at a moderate pace — can encourage the growth of new brain cells, even later in life.
Research into which specific cardio activities are best for each of the sexes is ongoing, so there’s still more to learn. In the future, the goal is to learn more about how to individualize exercise for brain health.
This isn’t to say that other types of exercise aren’t important parts of an overall fitness regimen. Strength training helps you stay independent, while yoga, other flexibility exercises and balance work help prevent dangerous falls and keep you limber.
It may be hard to begin an exercise program if you’ve never been active, but it starts with your
