A major study involving nearly half a million adults has revealed that cycling not only strengthens physical health but also plays a significant role in reducing the risk of dementia — a brain condition marked by memory loss and cognitive decline.
According to researchers, individuals who regularly cycle show a 19 per cent reduced risk of developing dementia overall. Notably, among those in the early stages of the disease, the risk was found to be reduced by as much as 40 per cent.
The study also found that cycling has a positive impact on brain structure. MRI scans conducted as part of the research revealed that people who cycle frequently have a larger hippocampus — the area of the brain associated with memory and learning. Scientists believe that maintaining the volume of the hippocampus helps preserve cognitive functions such as memory retention and decision-making.
Even individuals with genetic predispositions to dementia, such as carriers of the APOE E4 gene, were seen to benefit from cycling. For this group, the risk of developing dementia was 26 per cent lower compared to non-cyclists with the same gene.
“These findings offer promising insight into how lifestyle interventions like regular cycling can delay or potentially prevent the onset of dementia,” the researchers noted. “Cycling improves blood flow to the brain, reduces inflammation, and supports neural health — all of which are critical in maintaining cognitive function.”
The results add to the growing body of evidence that suggests physical activity, particularly cycling, may be a protective factor against age-related neurodegenerative conditions.
Public health experts have called for increased investment in cycle-friendly infrastructure and awareness campaigns to encourage more people to take up the activity as part of a long-term strategy to combat rising dementia cases globally.
