Unlock the Benefits of High-Intensity Interval Training for Brain Health - Health

Exercise has long been known to benefit brain health , with a recent study suggesting that these advantages can last for years . Researchers from the University of Queensland in Australia studied the impact of exercise on cognitive decline in older adults , focusing on high - intensity interval training ( HIIT ) . The study involved 151 participants aged 65 - 85 who were divided into different exercise groups for six months.

"Six months of high - intensity interval training is enough to flick the switch,"

said University of Queensland neuroscientist Perry Bartlett . The researchers found that only the HIIT group showed signs of cognitive improvement immediately after the program and even five years later . This suggests that HIIT could be crucial in maintaining cognitive sharpness in older adults.

Unlock the Benefits of High-Intensity Interval Training for Brain Health

The study showed that HIIT can prevent age - related brain shrinkage and improve connections between different brain networks . The researchers used brain scans and blood samples to measure changes in the brain , highlighting the long - lasting benefits of HIIT on cognitive function . Despite the positive results , more research is needed to understand the biological mechanisms at play and how different individuals respond to exercise.

In the larger context of fighting dementia in the elderly , exercise routines , particularly HIIT , could play a significant role in keeping people cognitively healthier for longer . This could have a positive impact on the personal , economic , and social costs associated with dementia . The study , published in the journal Aging and Disease , adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the link between exercise and brain health.

In conclusion , exercise , especially high - intensity interval training , has been shown to have lasting effects on cognitive function in older adults . The study emphasizes the importance of staying physically active to maintain brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline with age . By incorporating HIIT into their exercise routines , individuals can potentially improve brain function and overall well - being for years to come.