Staying physically active

Regular exercise that elevates your heart rate and increases blood flow to your brain and body is important for supporting brain health.

Overview

Engaging in regular physical activity is an important part of regular self-care and is especially helpful for reducing the risk of dementia. Incorporating regular exercise into your lifestyle can have a wide range of positive effects on both your physical and mental health.

What is considered ‘regular physical activity’?

It usually refers to exercises that elevates the heart rate for 20 to 30 minutes. Adults are encouraged to aim for at least 150 minutes (about 2 and a half hours) of moderate physical activity per week.

What sort of activities are recommended?

  • walking, hiking or cycling
  • martial arts
  • yoga or pilates
  • spin classes or aerobics
  • weightlifting or strength training
  • swimming
  • dancing
  • join a recreational sports team

Try to include activities you enjoy, to make it easier to stick with over time.

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