A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that exercising only on weekends may offer similar protection against mild dementia as more frequent workouts. Known as "weekend warriors," these individuals manage to fit their physical activity into just one or two weekly sessions. The study suggests that even this limited, structured exercise can potentially lower dementia risk, which is encouraging news for people with tight schedules.
The research team, consisting of specialists from Latin America and Europe, analyzed data from the Mexico City Prospective Study. This extensive project has tracked the health of thousands in Mexico City over many years, with participants surveyed twice—first between 1998 and 2004, and again from 2015 to 2019. From the 10,033 individuals surveyed (average age 51), participants provided information about their exercise habits, and researchers categorized them into four groups: those who did not exercise, weekend warriors (engaging in physical activity once or twice a week), regular exercisers (working out three or more times weekly), and a combined group of regular exercisers and weekend warriors.
The findings indicated that weekend exercisers had a 13% lower likelihood of developing mild cognitive impairment than non-exercisers, while those in the regular activity group had a 12% reduction. The results were similar for both men and women, suggesting that engaging in even occasional exercise can offer cognitive health benefits comparable to more frequent workouts.
Lead researcher Gary O'Donovan, from the University of the Andes, highlighted the importance of making exercise accessible, especially for individuals with limited time. He noted that "lack of time" often prevents adults from fitting regular exercise into their routines, suggesting that weekend warriors could feel reassured about their approach to fitness, which could yield benefits comparable to regular activity.
This study's findings are consistent with broader research, which suggests that weekend exercise routines may be as beneficial as frequent ones for reducing the risk of various diseases. Chris Russell, a dementia expert at the University of Worcester, added that physical activity supports mental health through social connections and cognitive engagement, which can help guard against cognitive decline.
Given these results, public health initiatives might consider promoting flexible exercise schedules to accommodate people with demanding lifestyles, thus supporting both physical and cognitive health.