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Published: October 08, 2025 08:31 PM IST
A study has found a type of exercise that helps older adults improve memory, learning and offers protective benefits for the brain for up to 5 years.
Exercise provides protective benefits for brain health, supporting cognitive functions. A study published in Aging and Disease identified a particular type of exercise, depending on intensity, that can significantly improve memory and learning, especially for older adults. Researchers identified that high intensity interval training (HIIT) was the most effective.
Also read: Are you working out excessively in the gym? Know the risks of overtraining syndrome, bone and muscle damage
What did the study find?
Researchers followed participants aged 65-85, divided into three groups, across three exercise phases: low-intensity training, moderate-intensity training, and high-intensity interval training. The participants followed these exercises for six months. The researchers’ goal was to understand which of the three benefited the hippocampus the most, the area of the brain most important for memory and learning.
The findings showed that participants who did HIIT saw improvements in hippocampal function. According to researchers, its benefits lasted for five years. They also recommended that just three HIIT sessions per week for six months could benefit your brain.
HIIT is intense exercise performed over short periods of time, ranging from sprints, jumping rope, jumping squats to mountain climbing.
Why does HIIT work for the brain?
The study highlighted a chemical called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). It helps brain cells to grow and develop connections. Based on the findings, researchers reported that HIIT increases this chemical in a way that gives the brain strength. In addition to this effect, changes are also seen in cortisol, the stress hormone, which in turn is associated with improved hippocampal functions.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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