Short Weekend Workouts May Reduce Dementia Risk, Study Finds

New research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that short bursts of exercise—even just one or two sessions over the weekend, also known as the "weekend warrior" approach—may help lower the risk of cognitive decline, which can often precede dementia. This approach seems just as beneficial for brain health as more frequent exercise, making it a practical option for people with busy schedules, the researchers say.

Finding ways to reduce the risk of dementia is essential, as a five-year delay in its onset could potentially halve its prevalence. Yet, most studies to date have been conducted in high-income countries, so this study's insights, gathered from the Mexico City Prospective Study, add valuable information to global dementia prevention efforts.

In this study, researchers analyzed data from two surveys: one conducted between 1998 and 2004, and a follow-up between 2015 and 2019. Over 10,000 adults in Mexico City participated, averaging 51 years of age. Respondents were grouped by activity level: those who didn’t exercise, "weekend warriors" who worked out once or twice a week, those who exercised three or more times weekly, and a combined group of all active individuals. At the follow-up, participants’ cognitive abilities were evaluated using the Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE). A score of 22 or below signaled mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

During an average monitoring period of 16 years, 2,400 cases of MCI were identified. Interestingly, MCI prevalence was highest (26%) among those who didn’t exercise, compared to 14% for weekend warriors and 18.5% for those who exercised regularly. After adjusting for age, education, diet, sleep, and other lifestyle factors, the weekend warriors were 25% less likely to develop MCI than those who didn’t exercise, while those exercising regularly were 11% less likely.

Exercising appears to protect the brain in multiple ways. It may increase molecules that support brain cell health, improve brain plasticity, and is linked to larger brain volume, better memory, and improved cognitive function.

The researchers emphasize that while this is an observational study, it provides compelling insights into how occasional exercise could play a significant role in dementia prevention. They believe the findings highlight a flexible option for busy people worldwide to help protect their brain health.

Source:
BMJ Group.
Journal Reference:
O’Donovan, G., et al. (2024). Associations of the “weekend warrior” physical activity pattern with mild dementia: findings from the Mexico City Prospective Study. British Journal of Sports Medicine. doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2024-108460.