The #1 Science-Backed Habit To Slow Brain Aging, Study Finds
Key takeaways
- Author: Ava Durgin April 29, 2026Assistant Health Editor By Ava Durgin Assistant Health Editor Ava Durgin is the former Assistant Health Editor at mindbodygreen.
- The study, published in Neurology, tracked patients with early Parkinson’s disease using detailed MRI scans and physical activity logs.
- Importantly, exercise wasn’t just easing daily symptoms.
Why this matters: practical guidance grounded in recent research or expert insight.
Author: Ava Durgin April 29, 2026Assistant Health Editor By Ava Durgin Assistant Health Editor Ava Durgin is the former Assistant Health Editor at mindbodygreen. She holds a B.A. in Global Health and Psychology from Duke University.Image by ANI DIMI / Stocksy April 29, 2026When most people think of exercise, they picture stronger muscles, a healthier heart, or maybe a better night’s sleep. But science continues to show that movement is just as critical for the brain.
In fact, a new study suggests that regular physical activity may actually slow neurodegeneration, the gradual loss of brain cells and connections that underlie conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and even normal aging.
The study, published in Neurology, tracked patients with early Parkinson’s disease using detailed MRI scans and physical activity logs. Participants reported their exercise levels over the four-year period, and researchers measured changes in brain structure and cognitive function.