A decade-long study of over 300 twins suggests that older women with stronger legs may experience slower brain ageing. Researchers from King's College London found that leg power was a key indicator of whether individuals were getting enough exercise to maintain cognitive health.
The study, published in the journal Gerontology, tracked more than 150 pairs of twin sisters aged 43 to 73 at the outset. Leg power was measured using gym equipment that assessed speed and force of leg extension, while cognitive function was tested through computerised tasks evaluating memory and mental processing at both the start and end of the study.
Results showed that the twin with greater leg strength at the beginning generally retained better cognitive abilities and exhibited fewer age-related brain changes after ten years. This association persisted even after accounting for other lifestyle and health factors known to influence dementia risk.
Lead researcher Dr Claire Steves commented: 'When it came to cognitive ageing, leg strength was the strongest factor that had an impact in our study. We think leg strength is a marker of the kind of physical activity that is good for your brain.'
Experts caution that the study did not specifically examine dementia, and it remains unclear whether improved memory test results translate into a reduced risk of the condition. Dr Doug Brown of the Alzheimer's Society noted: 'We still don't fully understand how this relationship works and how we can maximise the benefit.' Dr Simon Ridley from Alzheimer's Research UK emphasised the importance of both strength training and aerobic exercise for brain health.
