Regular cycling as a primary mode of transportation is associated with a significantly lower risk of developing dementia, according to a comprehensive study published in June 2025 in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). The research analyzed the commuting patterns of approximately 480,000 individuals over a 13-year period, drawing data from the UK Biobank.
The findings indicate that individuals who regularly cycle have a 19% reduced risk of dementia compared to those who use less active transportation methods like cars or public transit. This protective effect extends to Alzheimer's disease, with a linked 22% decrease in risk. The study also suggests that cycling is associated with a larger hippocampal volume. The hippocampus, a critical brain region for memory and learning, can be positively impacted by physical activity.
Research indicates that physical activity, including cycling, enhances cardiovascular health, improves blood flow to the brain, and promotes neural plasticity, all contributing to the preservation of cognitive functions. The combination of physical activity, the need to orient oneself, and maintaining balance engages various parts of the brain, strengthening interneuronal connections. Studies have demonstrated that exercise training can increase hippocampal volume, potentially reversing age-related decline. Specifically, aerobic exercise has been linked to a 2% increase in hippocampal volume, which in turn is associated with improved memory function.
While this study is observational and does not establish a definitive cause-and-effect relationship, it adds substantial weight to the growing body of evidence highlighting the importance of physical activity in mitigating cognitive decline. The study also showed that protective effects were observed in both early and late-onset dementia. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults aim for 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week. Experts suggest that even incorporating cycling for transportation, in any amount, can offer benefits for brain health, and individuals new to cycling can start with shorter rides on safe routes .