In light of World Alzheimer’s Day (the 21st of September 2026) and World Alzheimer’s Month, we thought we would take a dive into the science of one of the lesser known benefits of exercise: improving brain health!
When we think about exercise, we often think about the physical and aesthetic benefits: strength, fitness, mobility and physique. But – just as importantly – exercise can also influence how we think, focus, learn and remember.
Regular physical activity is one of the best ways to support cognitive capacity and keep your brain sharp for the daily demands of everyday life – whether at work, coordinating busy family schedules, or remembering the grocery shopping list! As we move towards the golden years, regular exercise can help to prevent Alzheimer’s.
Given that dementia is the leading cause of death in Australia (1), exercise should be considered as playing a leading role in maintaining health and independence across the whole lifespan.
Exercise and Concentration
Concentration is something we rely on every day. At work, it helps us stay focused on tasks, process information, solve problems and make decisions. Outside of work, it helps us learn new skills, remember information and stay engaged with the people and activities around us. Research suggests that physical activity can support several of these cognitive functions, including memory, attention, learning and executive function (2).
There are several mechanisms that may cause this. Exercise has been shown to:
- Increase blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain,
- Support neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to adapt and create new neural connections),
- Increase the production of proteins known as ‘brain-derived neurotrophic factor’ (BDNF), which are involved in the growth and maintenance of neurons (nerve cells).
MRI research has shown increases in gray matter volume in the frontal lobe of the brain (responsible for thinking, executive functioning and reasoning) and the hippocampus (the memory center) for those who complete regular aerobic exercise (3).
There are also more immediate benefits. Exercise is known to improve mood, reduce anxiety and stress, and support better sleep. All three can have a significant influence on our ability to concentrate and think clearly. Hello, mental acuity!
For someone who is not currently working due to injury or illness, exercise may be a great step towards building cognitive capacity for work, along with physical capacity.
And for those managing a demanding workload who say that they don’t have the time for regular exercise, reframe it like this; exercise doesn’t take away from productivity – it enhances it!
Exercise For Alzheimer’s Prevention
The potential benefits of exercise become particularly important when we consider the long-term health of the brain.
Research has consistently identified physical activity as a protective factor against cognitive decline and dementia. So much so that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have highlighted the reduction in dementia risk as one of the benefits of regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (4).
Brain health is closely connected to overall health. Lifestyle factors that affect cardiovascular and metabolic health – i.e. exercise – can also influence the brain indirectly, by improving blood glucose and cholesterol profiles, and slowing down age-related neural degeneration. Maintaining regular physical activity is one practical behaviour that may contribute to reducing risk and supporting healthy cognitive ageing.
So, How Much Exercise Do We Need?
For most adults, the standard target is 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. This could include brisk walking, swimming, dancing, cycling or other activities that increase your heart rate. If you complete vigorous intensity exercise, this time frame can be reduced to 75 minutes per week (we recommend building up to vigorous intensity over time, and obtaining clearance from a medical professional first if you have health conditions that may be impacted by exercise).
The key is consistency. Research suggests that many of the structural and cognitive benefits associated with exercise develop over several months, rather than days (2). In other words, supporting brain health is a long-term investment, not a short fix.
This World Alzheimer’s Day, Move Towards Better Brain Health
The evidence increasingly supports a simple message: regular physical activity is good for more than your muscles – it is also an investment in your brain.
Starting with achievable, sustainable movement can support focus and cognitive performance now, while contributing to healthier ageing in the years ahead.
For many people, the goal isn’t simply to live longer. It’s to remain capable, independent and engaged in the things that matter most for as long as possible.
References
- https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/life-expectancy-deaths/deaths-in-australia/contents/leading-causes-of-death
- Harvard Health Publishing. Exercise can boost your memory and thinking skills. Published 17 April 2026. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/exercise-can-boost-your-memory-and-thinking-skills
- Mandolesi L, et al. Effects of Physical Exercise on Cognitive Functioning and Wellbeing: Biological and Psychological Benefits. Frontiers in Psychology. 2018.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Physical Activity Boosts Brain Health. Published 13 August 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity/features/boost-brain-health.html
