09/26/2025
A new study suggests that cycling may play a role in protecting brain health and lowering the risk of dementia.
Researchers analyzed long-term data from nearly 480,000 participants and discovered that those who regularly cycled had a 19% lower risk of developing dementia overall, and a 22% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease. In contrast, individuals who relied on less active modes of travel, such as driving or using public transportation, did not see the same benefit.
The study also highlighted that cycling was linked to larger volumes in the brain regions associated with learning and memory.
However, experts caution that this was an observational study, meaning it cannot prove cause and effect. It only shows a strong association between cycling and reduced dementia risk.
The findings were published in JAMA Network Open, adding to growing evidence that active transportation may do more than improve fitness it could also support long-term brain health.
