Any kind of regular physical activity during free time in any age is linked to better brain function later in life, according to a new British scientific study. The observance of an exercise routine throughout adulthood appears to be best for maintaining a sharp mind and good memory over time, research shows.

The researchers, led by Dr Sarah-Naomi James of the University College London (UCL) School of Medicine, who made the relevant publication in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, studied 1,417 people, the who underwent cognitive tests (attention, orientation, language, speech, memory, data processing speed, etc.) at the age of 69.

It was preceded by assessment of physical activitys at the successive ages of 36, 45, 53, 60, 64 and 69 years. Participants were classified into categories: inactive, moderately active (exercise 1-4 times per month), and more active (more than five times per month), scoring a final score from 0 (inactive at all ages) to 5 (active at all the ages). 11% scored zero (always inactive), 15% scored five (always active regardless of age), and the rest somewhere in between.

It found that those rated “excellent” in physical activity (active at all ages) had better cognitive performance and better memory at 69, while – compared to the inactive – the even moderately active had a healthier brain and mind.

“Encouraging inactive adults to become more active at any age, as well as encouraging already active adults to maintain their activity, can benefit later cognitive functioning,” the researchers concluded. Regular physical exercise and activity in general reduces the risk of dementia and cognitive impairment.

See the scientific publication here