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Hackensack Today
By the People, for the People
Exercise May Help Prevent Memory Loss, Study Finds
Experts weigh in on how exercise can boost brain health and memory
Mar. 25, 2026 at 4:30pm
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A new study has found that exercise may help prevent memory loss over time. Researchers studied patients with drug-resistant epilepsy and discovered that after 20 minutes of moderate-intensity cycling, the participants showed an increased amount of hippocampal sharp wave ripples, which are critical for memory consolidation. Experts say exercise increases blood flow to the brain and stimulates the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which supports neuron survival and growth, potentially counteracting age-related memory impairments.
Why it matters
The findings reinforce the connection between physical activity and brain health, providing further evidence that exercise can have a direct impact on the neural signals that support memory. This is important as the population ages and the prevalence of memory-related disorders increases.
The details
The study involved patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who underwent invasive monitoring, allowing researchers to track their brain activity in real-time using an intracranial electroencephalogram (EEG). Participants first engaged in 20 minutes of rest, then 20 minutes of moderate-intensity cycling, followed by another 20-minute rest period. Brain activity from the hippocampus and neocortex was recorded before and after the exercise. Researchers noticed an increased amount of hippocampal sharp wave ripples, which are critical for memory consolidation, after the exercise session. They also found a positive correlation between an accelerated heart rate and a ripple rate, suggesting exercise may lead to more efficient memory formation and recall.
- The study was published in Brain Communications in 2026.
The players
Dinesh Sivakolundu, M.D., Ph.D.
A neurologist at MS Neuromuscular Center of Excellence.
Kamal Wagle, M.D.
A geriatric medicine physician at Hackensack Meridian Health.
What they’re saying
“Exercise is not just beneficial on the behavioral level; it directly impacts the fundamental neural signals that support memory.”
— Dinesh Sivakolundu, M.D., Ph.D., Neurologist
“What's good for the heart is good for the brain. Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of a brain-healthy lifestyle, alongside a nutritious diet, stress management, and quality sleep.”
— Kamal Wagle, M.D., Geriatric Medicine Physician
“Incorporating short, brisk walks, or other forms of exercise suitable for your abilities, into your daily routine can make a significant difference in your long-term cognitive well-being. It's about making a conscious investment in your future self, ensuring a life that is not just long, but also vibrant and full of cherished memories.”
— Kamal Wagle, M.D., Geriatric Medicine Physician
The takeaway
This study provides further evidence that exercise can have a direct impact on the neural signals that support memory, reinforcing the connection between physical activity and brain health. As the population ages, incorporating regular exercise into one's routine can make a significant difference in long-term cognitive well-being.
