By: Jaime Herndon

Riding a bicycle is great for your physical health, but did you know that it’s also good for your brain? According to Psychology Today, a study was done in the Netherlands, where bike riding is common, on both healthy individuals and those with schizophrenia. In both groups, those who regularly rode bikes showed an increase in the integrity of white matter fiber tracts in their brains. White matter connects different areas of the brain and less effective white matter tracts can slow thinking or lead to cognitive deficits.

Another study focused on a brain protein called BDNF, or brain-derived neurotrophic factor. BDNF helps strengthen existing neurons and create new ones, helping to promote and maintain healthy brain function and possibly even help prevent Alzheimer’s and other neurological diseases. Exercise is known to raise BDNF levels, and another study found that after three months of riding a stationary bike, study participants had higher levels of BDNF.

Bike riding has also been shown to lower stress hormones and aid with memory. So what are you waiting for? It’s summertime – a great time to get active and get outside. Why not grab a bike (or rent one), and go bike riding with nieces and nephews? Riding in the morning before it gets too hot, or in the early evening, can help make it more comfortable. Don’t forget the sunscreen and the helmets!

Photo: gbh007
Published: June 15, 2015