Exercise Training Increases Size of Hippocampus and Improves Memory

description

Here we show, in a randomized controlled trial with 120 older adults, that aerobic exercise training increases the size of the anterior hippocampus, leading to improvements in spatial memory. Exercise training increased hippocampal volume by 2%, effectively reversing age-related loss in volume by 1 to 2 y. We also demonstrate that increased hippocampal volume is associated with greater serum levels of BDNF, a mediator of neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus.

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subject terms

Aging & Longevity

Aging & Longevity > Health: Brain & Mental

Aging & Longevity > Health: Physical

Aging & Longevity > Vitality & Wellness

contributors

C. Basak

K. Erikson

R. Prakash

M. Voss

related organization

National Academy of Sciences

resource type

Articles and Blog Posts

year

2011