Brisk walking, cycling may be most beneficial exercises for enhancing memory: Study

Moderate intensity exercise such as brisk walking, water aerobics or cycling may have the most beneficial effect on memory performance, according to a study which may lead to better tailored exercise recommendations for older people.

The findings, published in the journal Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, suggested that it is not necessary for people to carry out highly strenuous exercise to achieve observable improvements in long-term memory since moderate exercise can have a more positive influence.

According to the researchers, including those from the University of Kent in the UK, the study could be significant for supporting new approaches to preserve memory in older age, in particular the treatment of patients with memory deficiencies.

They said guidelines for memory enhancement through exercise, based on the current study's findings, could provide a boost for students in exam settings or even help people with daily tasks such as remembering the items on a shopping ...