Study Examines Effects of Exercise on Cognitive Function

Exercise was associated with improvements in cognitive function in adults over 50 years old, regardless of their cognitive status, according to a recent study.

For their study, researchers conducted a systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis of 39 randomized controlled trials of physical exercise interventions in community-dwelling adults over 50 years old.
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Overall, they found that physical activity was associated with improved cognitive function, with interventions involving aerobic exercise, resistance training, multicomponent training, and tai chi having significant effects.

When testing various exercise duration, a duration of 45 to 60 minutes per session of at least moderate intensity was associated with benefits to cognition.

“To improve cognitive function, this meta-analysis provides clinicians with evidence to recommend that patients obtain both aerobic and resistance exercise of at least moderate intensity on as many days of the week as feasible, in line with current exercise guidelines.”

—Michael Potts

Reference:

Northey JM, Cherbuin N, Pumpa KL, Smee DJ, Rattray B. Exercise interventions for cognitive function in adults older than 50: a systematic review with meta-analysis [published online April 24, 2017]. Br J Sports Med. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2016-096587.